Lionel Messi Takes Ownership of Spanish Second Division Club Eldense

Lionel Messi, the star forward for Inter Miami, has officially taken control of Eldense, a club competing in Spain's Segunda Division. This move marks Messi’s first investment in a professional football team on Spanish soil.

New Chapter for Eldense Under Messi’s Leadership

The Alicante-based club, previously owned by Colombian group Grupo TH, announced the takeover on Thursday. Eldense has experienced three different ownership changes in the past year. This transition awaits formal approval from Spain’s National Sports Council (CSD), which is a necessary step before Messi’s ownership can be fully confirmed.

Significance of the Acquisition

This deal stands out as Messi’s first foray into professional football club ownership in Spain. Earlier in 2026, he had acquired Cornella, a fifth-division side, but that team operates at a semi-professional level.

"The arrival of one of the most significant figures in sports history into Spanish professional football as the owner of CD Eldense signals the beginning of a long-term project aimed at driving the club’s sporting, institutional, and social development," Eldense stated.

Club Background and Challenges Ahead

Established in 1921, Eldense has spent much of its history outside Spain’s top two tiers. The club’s home ground is the Estadio Nuevo Pepico Amat in Elda, which holds 5,776 spectators. After securing promotion to the Segunda Division in 2023—their first time since 1964—they faced relegation in 2025 but bounced back this summer.

Messi also holds part ownership in Deportivo LSM, a Uruguayan club, alongside his Inter Miami teammate Luis Suarez. Owning both Eldense and Cornella currently poses no regulatory issues due to the leagues’ separation by three divisions. Yet, should Cornella ascend too high, Spain’s Royal Football Federation (RFEF) likely would not allow Messi to hold majority stakes in two clubs playing in the same division.

Immediate Tasks: Managerial Vacancy and Team Performance

Eldense’s season began poorly, with no wins in their first four matches. This slump led to the recent sacking of head coach Claudio Barragan. At present, the club is without a manager while awaiting completion of the takeover.

The next critical steps involve obtaining official clearance from the CSD and appointing a new head coach to stabilize performance on the field.

Key Details About Eldense

• Founded: 1921
• Stadium: Estadio Nuevo Pepico Amat
• Capacity: 5,776
• Recent League History: Promoted to Segunda Division in 2023, relegated in 2025, returned in 2026
• Previous Owner: Grupo TH (Colombian investment group)