Lionel Messi Agrees Deal to Buy Spanish Second-Division Club CD Eldense

Lionel Messi Agrees Deal to Buy Spanish Second-Division Club CD Eldense

Lionel Messi is set to become the majority owner of Spanish second-division club CD Eldense after reaching a preliminary agreement with the club's current owners, Colombian investment group TH Soluciones Group SAS.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has reached an agreement in principle to acquire 100% of the shares, subject to final legal procedures, due diligence, and approval from Spain's High Council for Sports (CSD). Once completed, the transaction would make Messi the sole owner of a professional Spanish football club.

A Strategic Expansion of Messi's Football Portfolio

This acquisition represents Messi's second Spanish club investment in 2026, following his purchase of fifth-tier club UE Cornellà in April. The Eldense deal, however, marks a significant step up the Spanish football pyramid, as the club competes professionally in the Segunda División.

Eldense, based in the town of Elda near Alicante in south-east Spain, was founded in 1921 and has never competed in La Liga. The club earned promotion to the second tier in 2023 but has struggled early in the 2026-27 season, currently sitting 20th in the league table with just two points from their opening four matches.

Following in the Footsteps of Rivals

Messi's move into club ownership follows a growing trend among football superstars. His long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo acquired a 25% stake in UD Almería in February 2026, while former Barcelona teammates Gerard Piqué and Sergio Ramos have also invested in Spanish clubs (FC Andorra and Sevilla, respectively).

The Argentine legend, currently in his fourth season with Inter Miami in MLS, is building a business portfolio that extends beyond his playing career. Despite still being an active player, Messi is establishing himself as a significant figure in football club ownership and management.

Club in Crisis Mode

The timing of Messi's involvement comes at a critical moment for Eldense. The club dismissed manager Claudio Barragán on Sunday following their poor start to the season. With only two points from four matches, Eldense faces an immediate relegation battle in the competitive Segunda División.

Financial details of the transaction have not been officially disclosed, though reports suggest Messi paid between $70-80 million for UE Cornellà earlier this year. The Eldense acquisition would represent a substantially larger investment given the club's professional status.

What This Means for Spanish Football

Messi's investment in Eldense underscores the growing attraction of Spanish football for international investors. The club's location in the Valencia region, combined with Messi's personal connection to Spain from his 16-year career at Barcelona, makes this a strategically and emotionally significant acquisition.

As Messi approaches the latter stages of his playing career, his business ventures in football ownership suggest a long-term commitment to the sport beyond his time on the pitch. The Eldense project will be closely watched as an indicator of how former players can succeed in club management and ownership.