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Messi Agrees to Buy Second Spanish Club CD Eldense
Confirmed
In Short: Lionel Messi is set to become the majority owner of Spanish second-division side CD Eldense, following an agreement in principle.
Lionel Messi is set to become the majority owner of Spanish second-division side CD Eldense, according to reports. The deal, which was reached in principle, is pending the completion of final legal and contractual procedures, including a due diligence process and authorization from the High Council for Sports (CSD). Eldense, based in Alicante, currently sits 20th in La Liga 2 with two points from four games this season.
According to reports, the transaction is expected to be finalized in the coming days. Messi's acquisition of Eldense follows his previous investment in fifth-tier club UE Cornella, which he purchased in April. Cornella, known for its success in grassroots and youth football, has produced several graduates who have gone on to join Messi's former club Barcelona.
Messi's investment in Spanish clubs is part of a trend among former players becoming club owners. His former teammate Gerard Pique's Kosmos group owns Andorra, another club in the second tier of Spanish football. Additionally, Messi is set to receive a stake in his current club, Inter Miami, after the expiry of his playing contract.
The deal with Eldense is subject to the completion of remaining legal and contractual procedures, as well as the required authorization from the Spanish National Sports Council (CSD). Eldense, who play in the fifth tier of Spanish football, have a reputation for developing local talent. Messi's ownership is expected to reinforce his close ties to Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalonia.
Despite the potential for investment, Messi will be unable to sign high-profile players due to Spain's strict salary limit rules. This restriction means that his influence on the team's roster will be limited, but his involvement is still expected to bring significant benefits to the club.
What's confirmed
- Lionel Messi has reached an agreement in principle to become the new owner of Spanish second-division side CD Eldense, the club has confirmed.
What's still developing
- He went on to score a club record 672 goals in 778 games before he left for French club Paris St-Germain in 2021 prior to joining Major League Soccer side Inter Miami in the United States in 2023.
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