Messi Acquires CD Eldense, Joins Trend of Player Ownership

Lionel Messi has reached an agreement in principle to acquire 100% of CD Eldense, a Spanish second-tier club, in September 2026, pending approval from Spain's High Council for Sports. Earlier in 2026, Messi also acquired a club in the lower divisions of Spanish football.

Other active footballers are also investing in clubs; Kylian Mbappé, through Coalition Capital, acquired roughly 80% of French club SM Caen in 2024, which is significant to his early development. N'Golo Kanté purchased Belgian club Royal Excelsior Virton in 2023, focusing on sustainable development, leading to Virton's promotion in the 2025-26 season.

Two-time AFCON winner became the majority shareholder of Bourges Foot 18 in France in 2023. Luka Modrić became a minority investor in Swansea City while still playing professionally.

Vinicius holds a significant stake in FC Alverca in Portugal, and Wilfried Zaha co-owns AFC Croydon Athletic, emphasizing personal connections to the club.