Lionel Messi is set to conclude his international career with Argentina in a friendly match against Benin at the Monumental in Buenos Aires, marking his 208th appearance for the national team. He announced his retirement from international football on 31 August, stating he had nothing left to contribute after the World Cup final defeat to Spain. While his contract with Inter Miami extends through the end of the 2028 season with annual reviews, sources close to the player suggest he is likely to remain with the Major League Soccer club beyond that period if he feels physically and mentally capable.
Although Messi has historically avoided long-term planning, his post-playing future is taking concrete shape, primarily centered on club ownership and youth football development. He has indicated a preference for ownership roles over coaching positions, viewing ownership as a way to shape club direction while avoiding the daily pressures of match management. The framework for his football operations is being established in Spain, where he purchased UE Cornella in the fifth tier in April. More significantly, he was announced as the new owner of CD Eldense, a second-division club, on 1 October, subject to authorization from Spanish authorities. Eldense is expected to serve as the centerpiece of his Spanish football operations, with trusted intermediaries managing day-to-day affairs until he can dedicate full attention to the clubs.
Messi’s business portfolio extends well beyond club ownership. His lifetime endorsement deal with Adidas, signed in 2017, remains his most prominent partnership. MiM Hotels, a collection of six boutique properties spanning from Ibiza to Andorra, began operating under Melia’s management on 1 November 2025. Additionally, he co-founded Deportivo LSM with Luis Suarez in Uruguay in May 2025, which achieved promotion to the country’s third tier in its inaugural season. Forbes estimated his net worth at approximately $1.1 billion in June, with annual earnings around $140 million divided between football and business ventures.
Youth development represents another significant focus. Messi established the Messi Cup, a tournament for Under-16 academies that began in 2025 with eight participating teams and expanded to 16 teams this year, commencing on 25 October at Inter Miami’s facilities in Florida. His commitment to the tournament has proven substantial, as he attended every match during its inaugural year despite organizers expecting limited participation. His family firm also maintains real estate investments in Rosario, including involvement in Carrasco M, a residential development along the Parana river.
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