Lionel Messi to Take Full Ownership of Spanish Club CD Eldense as He Grows His Football Business

Messi Set to Acquire Spanish Second Division Club CD Eldense

Lionel Messi, the Inter Miami forward, has agreed in principle to buy CD Eldense, a team competing in Spain's Segunda Division. This deal marks a significant expansion of Messi's business interests in Spanish football as he looks ahead to possibly returning to live in Catalonia.

Deal Details and Approval Pending

The Argentine is expected to purchase 100% of CD Eldense's shares with no third-party involvement once due diligence is complete, according to reports from Marca. The takeover awaits final approval from Spain's Higher Sports Council (CSD) in the next few days.

Background on CD Eldense Ownership

The Alicante-based club was last owned by an international investment group led by businessman Juan Carlos Trujillo, who took over from Pascual Perez in October 2025. Before Messi’s involvement, there was interest from Argentine investor Ricardo Pini with a proposed €12 million bid, but Messi’s entry changed the course of negotiations.

Messi Family Expands Football Holdings

This takeover adds to the growing list of football ventures by the Messi family. Earlier this year, they bought fifth-tier Spanish side UE Cornella. Messi also joined forces with Luis Suarez to acquire Uruguayan club Deportivo LSM. Meanwhile, his brother Matias leads Lions FC as club president, showing the family's widening influence in football management.

Current Challenges at CD Eldense

On the field, CD Eldense is facing difficulties after parting ways with head coach Claudio Barragan following a poor start to the season with only two points from four games. The club's leadership is under pressure to find a new manager quickly and improve their position in the league. Messi's involvement as majority owner is expected to bring financial support and strategic direction to stabilize the team.