Lionel Messi has admitted he does not envision a future in coaching after retirement, but says he is open to the idea of owning and developing his own football club.
Messi, 38, is arguably the greatest footballer in the history of the game after enjoying remarkable individual and team achievements over the course of his career.
The Argentina captain recently extended his contract at MLS Cup champions Inter Miami until 2028 after guiding the club to a first-ever league title in the just-concluded season.
“I don’t see myself as a coach, I like the idea of being a manager, but I’d prefer to be an owner. I’d like to have my own club, start from the bottom, and make it grow. To be able to give the kids the opportunity to develop and achieve something important. If I had to choose, that’s what would appeal to me most”, Messi admitted.
The 38-year-old has previously revealed his desire to return to boyhood club Barcelona, although he did not particularly specify which role he would return to at the club.
Messi has multiple investments and launched the first-ever edition of the Messi Cup last year, featuring U-16 players from eight academy teams.
He also recently partnered with best friend and teammate Luis Suarez in investing in a fourth tier club in Uruguay.
“Deportivo LS is a family dream that began in 2018. We have grown a lot with more than 3,000 members. I want to offer Uruguayan soccer, the place I love and where I grew up as a child, opportunities and tools for teenagers and children to grow”, Suarez stated after he began the initiative.
“I’m proud and happy that he chose me, so I hope to contribute everything I can to continue growing and, above all, to be by his side in this,” Messi stated.
Inter Miami will begin their title defence in the 2026 season when they face Los Angeles FC in their season-opening match in February.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
