Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi has taken ownership of the Spanish club UE Cornellà, which competes in the country's fifth division. The club is based in a working-class neighborhood of Barcelona. Messi, regarded as the best player of his generation, spent two decades at FC Barcelona, winning multiple titles and Ballon d'Or awards before departing in 2021.

UE Cornellà announced the deal on Thursday without disclosing the specifics of the purchase. In a statement, the club said, "Leo Messi's arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter in the club's history. The project is guided by a long-term vision and a strategic plan that combines ambition, sustainability, and a strong connection to its local roots."

Founded in 1951, Cornellà has helped develop players such as Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya and former Barcelona defender Jordi Alba, who also played alongside Messi at Inter Miami. At age 38, Messi aims to compete in the World Cup in North America this year, where Argentina will defend their title. This move is seen as part of his post-playing career investment strategy.

Source: www.aljazeera.com