Barcelona, Apr 17 (EFE).-
Lionel Messi’s purchase of Spanish lower-division club UE Cornellà opens new opportunities for both the team and the city, local authorities said Friday, welcoming the Argentine star’s investment as a boost for sport and community development.
In a statement, the council welcomed the operation carried out by the former Barcelona star, who has entered the shareholding of the club, currently competing in Spain’s fifth tier, the Tercera RFEF, with the aim of promoting its sporting and institutional growth.
“The Cornellà de Llobregat City Council considers very positive the announcement made by UE Cornellà about the acquisition of the club by Leo Messi,” the statement read.
The council added that it had been aware of negotiations in recent weeks between the Argentine player, his representatives and the club, and had participated in discussions related to its role as manager of the municipal football stadium and joint development projects.
“This is highly relevant news that opens new expectations and opportunities for both the entity and the city. This initiative strengthens Cornellà’s link with high-level sport and helps project the name of our municipality beyond our territory,” the statement added.
The council also noted that the move reflects the work carried out by previous management teams in recent years.
In particular, it highlighted the role of the club’s foundation, which oversees key initiatives such as youth development, women’s football and social inclusion programs, areas described as central to the club’s identity.
The council, led by Socialist mayor Antonio Balmón, also expressed its willingness to continue working jointly with the club to ensure the new phase benefits sport, education and the wider community.
The Cornellà City Council was not the only institution to welcome the move.
The president of the Catalan Football Federation, Joan Soteras, described Messi’s involvement as “great news” and welcomed the Argentine’s renewed link with Catalan football.
“The purchase of Cornellà is no coincidence. It demonstrates knowledge of our football and links him to a leading training club that competes at high levels. It is a very good choice,” Soteras said.
UE Cornellà is known for its strong youth academy, which has produced players who later reached elite football, including Spain and Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, former Barcelona defender Jordi Alba, Barça defender Gerard Martín, Senegal international Keita Baldé, MLS champion Ilie Sánchez, Real Betis winger Aitor Ruibal and Espanyol captain Javi Puado, among others. EFE
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