Lionel Messi Set to Acquire Spanish Club CD Eldense
Lionel Messi is reportedly close to finalizing a deal to purchase CD Eldense, a Spanish second-tier club. This acquisition adds to his growing portfolio of football ownership interests, which includes a fifth-tier Spanish side and a stake in Inter Miami. The deal is pending approval from Spain's High Council for Sports.
Lionel Messi is on the verge of expanding his football empire with the reported acquisition of Spanish second-tier club CD Eldense. According to multiple reports from Spain, Messi has reached an agreement in principle to buy all shares currently held by the majority owner, TH Soluciones Group S.A.S. An official announcement regarding the deal is expected in the coming days, pending approval from Spain’s High Council for Sports (CSD).
The Colombian investment group, which took control of Eldense in October 2025, will transfer its entire stake to Messi, marking a significant step in the Argentine superstar's post-playing career. This move follows Messi's recent retirement from international duty with Argentina and his acquisition of fifth-tier Spanish side UE Cornella earlier this year on April 16. Additionally, Messi is set to receive a stake in Major League Soccer club Inter Miami once his playing contract concludes.
Eldense, based in Elda, a town of approximately 55,000 residents in the eastern province of Alicante, has a history primarily rooted in Spain’s lower divisions. However, with fresh investment, the club has managed to compete in the second tier for three of the past four seasons. The club's recent performance has been underwhelming, as evidenced by the sacking of manager Claudio Barragan after the team garnered only two points from their first four league matches, leaving them near the bottom of the standings.
The View from the Cheap Seats
Messi's foray into club ownership reflects a growing trend among retired football stars who seek to maintain a connection to the sport beyond their playing days. His involvement with Eldense could potentially bring increased visibility and investment to the club, which has struggled in recent seasons. As Messi transitions into this new role, the implications for both his legacy and the club's future will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
The acquisition of CD Eldense not only signifies Messi's ambition to influence the game from a different angle but also highlights the potential for revitalizing a club with a rich history yet facing challenges in the competitive landscape of Spanish football. As the deal awaits final approval, the football world anticipates how Messi's ownership will shape the club's trajectory and what it means for his ongoing legacy in the sport.
