Lionel Messi Agrees to Majority Ownership of CD Eldense

Lionel Messi has reached a preliminary agreement to become the majority shareholder of the Spanish La Liga 2 club CD Eldense. The announcement was made by the Alicante-based club on September 9, 2026, indicating a significant expansion of the 39-year-old forward's involvement in Spanish football following his international retirement. This move comes after Messi's international career concluded with Argentina's defeat in the 2026 World Cup final. The acquisition involves Messi purchasing the controlling shares currently held by Grupo TH Soluciones. The process is subject to standard due diligence, legal, and contractual procedures, and requires formal authorization from the Spanish National Sports Council (CSD) before Messi can assume full control. CD Eldense is currently experiencing a turbulent start to their La Liga 2 season, sitting in 20th place with only two points at the time of the announcement. This investment represents a strategic pivot for Messi, extending his influence within the Spanish sporting landscape beyond his playing career. The club's current situation highlights the challenges Messi will face as he takes on majority ownership, aiming to improve the team's performance and standing in the league. The preliminary agreement signifies Messi's commitment to investing in Spanish football infrastructure, potentially bringing new resources and strategic direction to CD Eldense. The club's announcement detailed the pending nature of the acquisition, emphasizing that final paperwork and regulatory approvals are still pending. This development positions Messi not only as a player but also as a significant stakeholder in the operational and strategic future of a professional football entity. The move also follows a period of coaching changes within CD Eldense, suggesting a broader restructuring effort that Messi's ownership is intended to bolster. The club's performance in the current season will be closely watched as the transition of ownership progresses, with expectations of a renewed focus on on-field success and club development under Messi's leadership. The preliminary agreement underscores a growing trend of high-profile athletes diversifying their portfolios into sports ownership, leveraging their influence and financial capital to shape the future of the teams they support.