MLS superstar Lionel Messi has revealed plans to become a club owner once his playing career ends. The 38-year-old Argentina legend, currently signed with Inter Miami through 2028, said ownership appeals to him more than coaching.
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“I don’t see myself as a coach,” Messi told Argentine streaming channel Luzu TV in an interview. “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 appeals to me more.”
‼️ Leo Messi on football plans after retirement: “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’d like most is to be a club owner.”
“I’d like to have my own club, to make a club… pic.twitter.com/igoV9f34TM
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) January 6, 2026
Messi guided Inter Miami to their first MLS Cup championship in 2025 and holds a future minority ownership stake in the club as part of his contract. His vision involves nurturing young talent and building a club from the ground up, similar to how David Beckham has developed Inter Miami.
In May 2025, Messi helped longtime friend and former teammate Luis Suarez launch Deportivo LSM, a fourth-division club in Uruguay. Messi said at the time that being part of Suarez’s project was “an honor” and that he hoped to contribute to the club’s growth.
Messi’s ambition reflects a broader trend of retired football stars moving into ownership roles, combining passion for the sport with business and development goals. The Argentina international has consistently emphasized giving back to the game and supporting young players’ careers.
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As Messi continues with Inter Miami, he will look to balance playing with these off-field projects. The 2026 MLS regular season kicks off on February 21, with Inter Miami traveling to face Los Angeles FC. Fans will be watching not only his performance on the pitch but also his evolving role as a potential club owner.