Lionel Messi is preparing for life beyond professional football, expanding his investments in European clubs as his international career with Argentina approaches its conclusion.
The 39-year-old is scheduled to make his 208th appearance for Argentina in a farewell friendly against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires on October 6, bringing an end to more than two decades of international football.
Messi announced his retirement from the national team on August 31, following Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
Despite his international retirement, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains committed to Inter Miami, where his contract runs until the end of the 2028 Major League Soccer season.
Messi Expands His Football Ownership Interests
Messi’s plans beyond his playing career are increasingly taking shape through football club ownership.
On October 1, Spanish second-division club CD Eldense announced that Messi had acquired the club, subject to approval from Spain’s Higher Sports Council.
The investment followed his April purchase of UE Cornellà, a fifth-tier Spanish club known for developing young football talent.
Eldense described Messi’s arrival as the beginning of a long-term project aimed at strengthening the club’s sporting, institutional and social development.
Messi is also involved in Deportivo LSM in Uruguay alongside former Barcelona teammate Luis Suárez. The club secured promotion to Uruguay’s third division in November 2025.
These investments suggest the Argentine superstar is building a long-term presence in football management and development rather than stepping away from the sport entirely.
Business Interests Beyond Football
Messi has also built a substantial business portfolio through endorsements, hospitality and other commercial investments.
According to Forbes, his estimated net worth reached $1.1 billion in 2026, with approximately $140 million earned over the preceding 12 months from football and commercial activities.
His investments include the MiM Hotels business, comprising six boutique properties in Spain and Andorra, while his commercial partnerships include Adidas and Stanley.
Messi also has an option to acquire an ownership stake in Inter Miami after retiring from professional football.
Youth Development Remains a Priority
Beyond professional club ownership, Messi is investing in the next generation of footballers.
The Messi Cup, an international Under-16 tournament, will return to Miami from October 25 to November 1, 2026.
The competition will expand from eight to 16 teams, featuring academies from Barcelona, Arsenal, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Ajax and several other major clubs.
While Messi has not announced when he will retire from club football, his growing investment portfolio suggests that ownership, youth development and business could define his next chapter.
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