Lionel Messi's Vision for Post-Retirement: Club Ownership Over Coaching

Lionel Messi, the captain of Inter Miami CF, has expressed a clear preference for club ownership over coaching as he contemplates his future after retiring from professional soccer. In a recent interview with Luzu TV, Messi stated, "I don't see myself as a coach. I like the idea of being a manager, but I'd prefer to be an owner. I'd like to have my own club, start from the bottom, and make it grow." His ambition centers on creating opportunities for young players to develop their skills and achieve success in the sport.

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Despite his focus on ownership, Messi remains active on the field, having signed a contract extension with Inter Miami that will keep him playing until at least 2028. Concurrently, he has begun to explore ownership opportunities, notably partnering with longtime teammate Luis Suárez to establish Deportivo LSM, a fourth-division soccer team in Uruguay. The club, named after the initials of both players, has grown to include over 3,000 members and aims to provide resources and opportunities for youth in Uruguayan soccer. Suárez remarked, "Deportivo LS is a family dream that began in 2018. We have grown a lot with more than 3,000 members."

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In addition to his involvement with Deportivo LSM, Messi has initiated the Messi Cup, an under-16 tournament held in Miami, which featured eight academy teams from around the world. The inaugural edition concluded with River Plate winning the championship, further emphasizing Messi's commitment to nurturing young talent.

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While Messi's vision for ownership has garnered support, some critics argue that transitioning from player to owner presents challenges that he may not fully grasp. They point to the complexities of managing a club, including financial sustainability and operational challenges, which differ significantly from the player experience.

Not coaching, but club ownership—that is Messi's goal after retirement

Messi's statements reflect a desire to impact the sport beyond his playing career. He has articulated a commitment to developing youth talent, stating, "To be able to give the kids the opportunity to develop and achieve something important. If I had to choose, that's what would appeal to me most."

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As Messi prepares for the 2026 Major League Soccer season, which kicks off on February 21 against LAFC, he is also speculated to be considering participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His future endeavors in club ownership and youth development will likely continue to evolve as he balances his current playing commitments with his long-term aspirations in football.

Not coaching, but club ownership—that is Messi's goal after retirement

• “I don't see myself as a coach,” — Lionel Messi, Captain of Inter Miami CF

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• “I want to have my own team, start from the lower divisions, and gradually build it into something significant.” — Lionel Messi

Not coaching, but club ownership—that is Messi's goal after retirement

• “Deportivo LS is a family dream that began in 2018.” — Luis Suárez, Co-founder of Deportivo LSM

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• “To be able to give the kids the opportunity to develop and achieve something important.” — Lionel Messi

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