MLS superstar Lionel Messi has expressed his aspirations to become a club owner, mirroring the path charted by David Beckham with Inter Miami, once he concludes his playing career. The 38-year-old Argentine icon, contracted with Inter Miami until 2028, indicated that he is more interested in ownership than in a coaching role for his next chapter.
In a recent interview with Argentine streaming service Luzu TV, Messi shared his vision: “I don’t see myself as a coach. I want to have my own club, start from the bottom and make it big. Being able to give kids the opportunity to develop and achieve something important is what appeals to me the most.”
Messi has already made significant contributions to Inter Miami, leading the team to its inaugural MLS Cup championship in 2025. His contract includes a provision for a future minority ownership stake in the club, solidifying his commitment to the franchise’s long-term success.
In addition to his ambitions in Miami, Messi recently partnered with his former FC Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez to establish a new fourth-division club, Deportivo LS, in Uruguay. “I want to thank Luis for giving me this opportunity, for inviting me to join him and share this project that he has been working on for many years that has grown a lot,” Messi expressed. “Being able to be a part of this is an honor. I hope to contribute everything I can to continue growing this club.”
As Messi looks ahead, he and Inter Miami are set to kick off the 2026 MLS regular season against Los Angeles FC on February 21. His dedication to nurturing the next generation of talent and his newfound entrepreneurial spirit promise a bright future both for himself and the clubs he becomes involved with.
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