Ronaldo and Messi Take Rivalry to Spanish Football Ownership
For more than a decade, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi defined an era of football through an extraordinary on-pitch rivalry that captivated fans across the globe. From record-breaking goal tallies to a near-monopoly on the Ballon d’Or—winning 12 of 13 awards between 2008 and 2021—the two icons pushed each other to unprecedented heights, with only Luka Modric briefly breaking their dominance in 2018.
Now, as their illustrious playing careers wind down at Al-Nassr FC and Inter Miami CF respectively, a new chapter in their rivalry is unfolding—this time off the pitch, in the world of football ownership.
In recent months, both legends have made strategic investments in Spanish clubs, sparking fresh intrigue. Ronaldo acquired a 25 percent stake in UD Almería, a team currently pushing for promotion from Spain’s Segunda División. Meanwhile, Messi has taken control of UE Cornellà, a modest side competing in the fifth tier of Spanish football.
The contrast between their ventures is striking. Almería, with a 17,000-plus capacity stadium and recent La Liga experience, offers Ronaldo a platform closer to elite competition. Cornellà, on the other hand, represents a grassroots project for Messi, with a small 1,500-seat ground and a focus on youth development in Catalonia—just miles from Barcelona’s famed Camp Nou.
Ronaldo’s move aligns with his long-stated ambition to own a major football club. The Portuguese star has previously spoken about structural issues within elite teams and expressed confidence in his ability to fix them if given the opportunity. His investment also strengthens ties with Saudi-backed stakeholders already involved in Almería, while expanding his growing business portfolio beyond his playing career.
Messi’s approach appears more community-driven. His investment in Cornellà reflects a commitment to nurturing local talent and reinforcing his deep connection to Catalonia, where he built his legendary career. The Argentine’s vision is understood to center on long-term growth, sustainability, and the development of young players through the club’s respected academy system.
Both clubs boast notable alumni. Cornellà has played a role in the early development of players like David Raya and Jordi Alba, while Almería has been a launching pad for talents such as Álvaro Negredo and Darwin Núñez.
As for a direct clash between their teams, it remains unlikely for now. The clubs sit three divisions apart, though a future meeting in the Copa del Rey or even a high-profile friendly cannot be ruled out. For such a scenario to materialize competitively, Cornellà would need a rapid rise through the leagues while Almería maintains or improves its standing.
