Lionel Messi Agrees to Purchase Spanish Soccer Club Eldense
Elda, Thursday, 10 September 2026.
Lionel Messi has reached an agreement to acquire Spanish second-tier club CD Eldense, setting up a direct league rivalry with former rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who owns a stake in Almeria.
Messi Reaches Agreement for Eldense Acquisition
Lionel Messi has reached an agreement in principle to acquire Spanish second-tier club CD Eldense, marking a significant expansion of his sports ownership portfolio as of September 2026 [1][3]. The deal, confirmed through multiple reports on September 9, 2026, positions the Argentine star to take full control of the club based in Elda, Valencia [1][2]. This move follows a trend of high-profile athletes transitioning into club ownership, leveraging personal capital to acquire controlling stakes in European sports franchises [1]. Messi, who retired from international football at the end of August 2026, continues to active with Inter Miami in the MLS while expanding his business interests in Europe [1].
Deal Structure and Ownership Details
Reports indicate that Messi intends to purchase 100% of the Segunda Division club, following an investment made previously in Catalunya side UD Cornellà [2][3]. The agreement was reached with a Colombian investment group that assumed control of Eldense in October 2025 and plans to transfer its entire stake to Messi [3]. While some sources describe the deal as a majority share acquisition, others specify a full takeover, with the transaction currently subject to due diligence processes [4][1]. The club, located in a town of approximately 55,000 residents, represents Messi’s second major football ownership venture in Spain during 2026 [3].
Regulatory Approval and Due Diligence
The transaction remains subject to authorization by the Spanish High Council for Sports (CSD) before it can be finalized [1][3]. An extensive audit, known as due diligence, must be completed to conclude the remaining legal and contractual procedures [4]. This regulatory step is standard for ownership changes in Spanish football to ensure financial stability and compliance with league regulations [4]. The process could be completed in the coming days if all requirements are met satisfactorily [4].
Competitive Context and Club Performance
The acquisition sets up a direct league rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, who acquired a 25% stake in fellow second-division team Almeria in February 2026 [1]. Both clubs compete in the same league, with Almeria having defeated Eldense 3-0 in their first season match [1]. Eldense has endured a difficult start to the season, collecting just two points from four matches and sitting third from bottom [3][4]. Consequently, the club sacked head coach Claudio Barragan on September 6, 2026, with assistant coach Josep Ferrando currently in interim charge [1].