Lionel Messi makes another surprise move into club ownership with La Liga 2 side CD Eldense 100% takeover, expands his $1Billion+ empire

Lionel Messi has taken another major step into football ownership after becoming the new owner of Spanish second-division club CD Eldense. The Argentina and Barcelona legend has acquired 100 per cent of the club’s shares from Colombian investment group TH Soluciones Group S.A.S.The move gives Messi control of a professional Spanish club while he continues his playing career with Inter Miami. It also strengthens his growing business interests in Spanish football, where he has already invested in Catalan lower-league side UD Cornella.Lionel Messi expands football empire with 100% takeover of CD EldenseLionel Messi has completed his takeover of CD Eldense and is now the sole owner of the La Liga 2 club. The deal sees the 39-year-old acquire 100 per cent of the shares previously held by Colombian investment group TH Soluciones Group S.A.S.Messi’s latest investment marks a major expansion of his football ownership portfolio. The Argentine superstar already owns Catalan club UD Cornella, which plays in Spain’s lower divisions.Eldense are based in Elda, Alicante, and have enjoyed a rise through the Spanish football pyramid in recent years. However, the club are currently facing a difficult period on the pitch.Eldense have made a poor start to the 2026/27 La Liga 2 campaign. The club collected only two points from their opening four league matches. They suffered defeats against Almería and Leganés. They also recorded draws against Cádiz and Mallorca.The difficult start led to the departure of manager Claudio Barragán. Messi and his team will now have to focus on finding a new manager as they look to improve the club’s sporting situation.The takeover gives Eldense a huge boost in terms of global attention. Messi remains one of the most famous footballers in the world. His ownership is expected to put the club under a much bigger international spotlight.The Argentine’s investment also adds another chapter to his long relationship with Spanish football. Messi spent the majority of his playing career at Barcelona after arriving in Spain as a youngster. He became a global superstar at the Catalan club and established himself as one of football’s greatest players.His ownership journey began with UD Cornellá. The Catalan club became part of Messi’s football investment plans earlier this year.The takeover also comes at an important stage of Messi’s playing career. He continues to play for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer and recently retired from international football. At the same time, he is gradually building interests away from the pitch.The club previously confirmed that the Eldense transaction required the completion of legal and contractual procedures. These included the relevant due diligence process and approval from Spain’s National Sports Council.The completed takeover means Messi can now begin shaping his vision for Eldense. His immediate priority will likely be helping the club achieve stability in La Liga 2.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.