Lionel Messi has confirmed that he intends to own a football club once his legendary playing career comes to an end. Although the Argentine icon remains under contract with Inter Miami until December 2028, he is already thinking seriously about life after football.
At 38, Messi is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. While his focus remains on performing at the highest level in Major League Soccer, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has begun outlining his long-term plans away from the pitch.
Messi rules out coaching role
Speaking to Argentine streaming channel Luzu TV, Messi admitted that a coaching career does not appeal to him. Instead, he sees himself in an executive or ownership role once he retires.
“I don’t really see myself as a coach. The idea of being a sporting director interests me more, but if I have to choose one of the three, what I would like most is to own a club,” Messi said.
The Inter Miami star explained that his vision goes beyond elite football.
“I want to have my own club, start from the bottom and make it grow. To be able to give children the opportunity to develop and achieve something important. That’s what attracts me the most,” he added.
Future ownership role at Inter Miami
Messi’s interest in club ownership is already becoming a reality. As part of his most recent contract renewal with Inter Miami, signed last year, he secured the right to acquire a minority ownership stake in the MLS franchise. The club is co-owned by former England star David Beckham.
Speaking to NBC, Messi praised the rapid growth of Inter Miami since his arrival.
“The Inter Miami brand has become very strong, not only in the United States, but also globally. The club has grown in every aspect: sporting, institutional and organizational,” he said.
Partnership with Luis Suárez in Uruguay
Beyond Inter Miami, Messi is also involved in club ownership in South America. He is a partner, alongside close friend Luis Suárez, in Deportivo LSM, a fourth-division club in Uruguay founded by the former Barcelona and Atlético Madrid striker.
At the club’s official launch, Messi expressed his gratitude for the opportunity.
“I want to thank Luis for inviting me to be part of this project he has been working on for many years and that has grown a lot,” Messi said.
“Being part of this is an honor. I hope to contribute everything I can to help the club continue to grow and to support it in every way,” he added.
With his future already taking shape beyond the pitch, Messi appears determined to remain deeply connected to football long after his playing days come to an end—this time as an owner shaping the next generation.
