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Lionel Messi agrees deal to buy second-tier Spanish club Eldense

Al Jazeera · 2026-09-09

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Lionel Messi has reached an agreement to purchase Spanish second-division club CD Eldense, pending final legal and contractual procedures. • Why it matters: This acquisition marks Messi's second investment in Spanish football, following his earlier purchase of UE Cornellà, and could enhance Eldense's competitive standing and fan engagement. • What to watch next: The completion of the deal is expected soon, and the football community will be observing how Messi's ownership influences the club's future and its performance in the Segunda División.

**Lionel Messi Agrees to Purchase Second-Tier Spanish Club CD Eldense**

Lionel Messi, the renowned Argentinian football star, is poised to expand his ownership portfolio in Spanish football by acquiring CD Eldense, a club currently competing in the second division. The agreement, confirmed by the club, is pending the finalization of legal and contractual procedures, as well as necessary approvals from the High Council for Sports (CSD).

Messi, who currently plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), is set to purchase 100% of the shares held by TH Soluciones Group SAS, the Colombian investment group that has been the majority shareholder since last October. The deal is expected to be completed in the coming days, although no specific date has been provided for its finalization.

This acquisition marks a significant step for Messi, who previously purchased UE Cornellà, a club in Spain's fifth tier, earlier this year. With Eldense currently positioned at the bottom of the Segunda División standings, Messi's involvement could bring new opportunities for the club, which has experienced a resurgence in recent years, moving up from regional divisions to the second tier.

The potential ownership of Eldense adds to Messi's growing influence in football beyond his playing career. As he approaches the end of his contract with Inter Miami, Messi is also expected to receive a stake in the MLS club, further solidifying his presence in the sport both on and off the field.

Eldense's rise to the second tier has been notable, and under Messi's ownership, the club may look to enhance its competitive standing and fan engagement. The club's management has expressed optimism about the future, hoping that Messi's involvement will attract attention and resources that could benefit their operations.

As the football world watches this development, Messi's move into club ownership reflects a broader trend among prominent players who seek to remain connected to the sport after their playing days are over. With his extensive experience and global brand, Messi's foray into ownership could have lasting implications for CD Eldense and Spanish football as a whole.

Source: Al Jazeera
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