MLS star Lionel Messi aims to become a club owner after retiring, similar to David Beckham’s path with Inter Miami.
The 38-year-old Argentine player, contracted with Miami until 2028, prefers ownership over coaching for his next chapter.
“I don’t see myself as a coach,” Messi, a two-time MLS MVP and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, mentioned in an interview with Argentine streaming service Luzu TV, released on Tuesday.
“I want to own a club, start from the ground up, and help it grow. It’s important to give kids the chance to develop their talents. If I had to pick, that would be more appealing to me.”
Messi led Inter Miami to its first MLS Cup championship in 2025 and has a minority ownership stake in the club as part of his contract.
In May, he assisted his former MLS and FC Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez in starting a new fourth-division team, Deportivo LSM, in Uruguay.
“I want to thank Luis for this opportunity and for inviting me to join his project, which has grown significantly over the years,” Messi stated at that time, according to ESPN Uruguay.
“It’s an honor to be part of this, and I hope to contribute to the club’s growth and be by your side.”
Messi and Miami will kick off the 2026 MLS regular season on February 21 against Los Angeles FC.
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