Lionel Messi's Post-Football Dream: Owning His Own Club
In a move that could reshape the football landscape, Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, has revealed his ambition to become a club owner when he retires from playing professional football.
Messi's Preference for Club Ownership
In an interview with Luzu TV streaming channel, Messi expressed his desire to manage a club, stating, "I like management, but if I had to decide for one of the three, I would like to be an owner." He added, "I would like to have my own club, to be able to grow it, to start from the bottom and to be able to give the kids, the people, the opportunity to grow and make it an important club."
Messi's Involvement in Deportivo LSM
Messi, who led Argentina to the World Cup title in 2022, is already a part-owner of Uruguay's fourth-division team Deportivo LSM, co-owned by Inter teammate Luis Suarez. Established in 2018, Deportivo LSM has grown significantly, boasting more than 3,000 members. The club's founders, Messi and Suarez, aim to offer opportunities and tools for young Uruguayan footballers to grow.
Implications for the Indian Football Scene
Messi's ambitious plans could inspire football enthusiasts in North East India and across the country. With the Indian Super League (ISL) and the Indian Women's League (IWL) gaining popularity, the prospect of a high-profile figure like Messi investing in an Indian club could inject new energy and resources into the domestic football scene.
Reflections and Future Prospects
As Messi prepares for the 2027 ODI World Cup and continues to dominate the MLS, his post-football aspirations serve as a testament to his multifaceted passion for football. Whether he achieves his dream of owning his own club remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Messi's impact on the sport will continue long after he hangs up his boots.