Lionel Messi set to become owner of Spanish club Eldense

Spanish second-tier club Eldense have announced that Lionel Messi has acquired shares in the club and will become its new owner, subject to the required approval from Spain’s Consejo Superior de Deportes.

The deal must receive formal clearance under the conditions and regulations set out in Spanish sports law. Approval is required because Messi has also owned another Spanish club, Cornella, since April.

Spanish legislation prevents the same individual or legal entity from holding more than 5% of the shares in more than one club. Eldense’s statement therefore confirmed that the proposed takeover remains conditional on the relevant authorisation being granted.

Messi, who plays for Inter Miami, is set to begin a new chapter in Spanish football through club ownership and investment. The former Barcelona forward spent many years playing in Spain before moving into a role away from the pitch.

Eldense are currently competing in Spain’s second division. The club sit 19th in the table with five points, placing them in one of the relegation positions.

The proposed takeover also brings Messi’s long-running rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo into a new setting. Their competition, which has lasted more than 15 years, will now extend from the pitch to club ownership.

Ronaldo owns Almeria, who play in the same division as Eldense. The two sides have already met in the league this season, with Almeria winning 3-0.

Messi’s planned involvement with Eldense comes while the club remains focused on avoiding relegation. Any change in ownership will depend on the sports authorities approving the transaction under Spain’s rules on multiple club ownership.