While football legends such as Diego Maradona and Zinedine Zidane have seamlessly transitioned into coaching careers after hanging up their boots, Argentine superstar Lionel Messi appears to have a different post-retirement vision.
Fans and football enthusiasts have long speculated about Messi’s plans once he steps away from professional play. In a recent interview, the 36-year-old forward offered rare insights into his future ambitions.
Speaking to Argentina’s streaming channel LUZU TV, Messi stated, “Becoming a coach is appealing, but I want to be an owner. I want to have my own club, start from the lower divisions, and build it up—that idea excites me more than coaching.”
Messi has recently extended his contract with Inter Miami until the 2028 season, signalling his intent to continue playing at the highest level while gradually exploring the path toward club ownership.
Last year, Messi, alongside long-time teammate Luis Suárez, launched Deportivo LSM, a fourth-division Uruguayan football club. The club’s name derives from the initials of Luis Suárez and Messi, symbolising their enduring partnership on and off the pitch.
| Club Name | Division | Members | Staff | Notable Initiatives |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deportivo LSM | 4th | 3,000+ | 80 | Youth tournaments, academy growth |
| Messi Cup U16 | Youth | N/A | N/A | Inaugural winner: River Plate |
Deportivo LSM currently boasts over 3,000 members and employs nearly 80 professional staff members. In addition, Messi inaugurated the “Messi Cup”, an under-16 football tournament that gathers youth teams from football academies worldwide. The first edition of this competition was claimed by Argentina’s River Plate, highlighting Messi’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent.
Despite his off-field ventures, Messi’s focus remains firmly on playing. He is set to kick off the 2026 Major League Soccer season with Inter Miami on 21 February against LAFC. Fans may also see him feature in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in June, potentially adding another chapter to his illustrious career.
Messi’s unique approach, blending active professional play with gradual steps into club management, could redefine how modern footballers transition from the pitch to leadership roles in the sport.