Lionel Messi eyes club ownership after retirement
Lionel Messi has revealed his preference for becoming a club owner rather than pursuing a coaching role when he eventually retires from professional football, reports BritPanorama.
The 38-year-old Argentine football icon shared his aspirations during an interview with Luzu TV that aired recently, indicating a desire to create and nurture a footballing legacy from the ground up.
“I don’t see myself as a coach,” Messi stated. “I like management, but if I have to decide between the options, I would like to be an owner.” His ambition reflects a focus on developing young talent and building a significant club.
Messi has already started his journey into club ownership, becoming a part owner of Deportivo LSM, a fourth-division team in Uruguay, alongside Inter Miami teammate Luis Suarez. This venture has grown substantially since its inception in 2018, now boasting over 3,000 members.
“Deportivo LS is a family dream that began in 2018. We have grown a lot,” Suarez commented last May. The pair’s commitment aims to enhance opportunities for youth in Uruguayan football.
In addition to Deportivo LSM, Messi has ties to Leones de Rosario FC in Argentina’s fourth division. His current contract with Inter Miami extends until the end of 2028, following a three-year renewal signed in October. Notably, this contract also includes a provision for a minority ownership stake in the club.
This strategic move mirrors the path of David Beckham, who co-founded Inter Miami and played a pivotal role in bringing Messi to Major League Soccer (MLS). Messi has expressed enthusiasm for exploring the business side of football, mentioning to the American Business Forum in November that he is “just getting started” on this journey.
Despite his future plans, Messi’s on-field performance remains remarkable. Last season, he claimed the MLS Golden Boot with 29 goals and contributed 19 assists, marking himself as the first player in MLS history to win consecutive MVP awards.
Clearly, Messi is not only considering what comes next as a business owner but continues to make an undeniable impact in the sport, setting records and leading the charge for both club and country.
As Messi transitions towards new ambitions, the footballing world watches with intrigue, recognising how seamlessly he blends ambition with talent, just as he always has on the pitch.
