While football legends such as Diego Maradona and Zinedine Zidane embraced coaching careers after hanging up their boots, Argentine superstar Lionel Messi appears to be charting a different path. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Messi has expressed little desire to step into the managerial role once his playing days are over.
Fans and football enthusiasts around the world have long speculated about Messi’s post-retirement plans. In a recent interview with Argentina’s streaming channel, LuZu TV, Messi candidly discussed his vision for the future.
“Coaching is certainly interesting,” Messi explained, “but what truly excites me is owning a club. I want to have my own club, start from the lower divisions, and gradually build it up. That idea appeals to me far more.”
Messi, who has extended his contract with Major League Soccer (MLS) side Inter Miami until the 2028 season, is already taking tentative steps towards club ownership alongside his ongoing playing career.
Last year, in collaboration with long-time teammate Luis Suárez, Messi launched Deportivo LSM, a fourth-division club in Uruguay. The club’s name is derived from the initials of Luis Suárez and Messi, symbolising their joint venture.
Currently, Deportivo LSM boasts over 3,000 registered members and employs nearly 80 professional staff, marking a significant footprint for a recently established club.
In addition to club ownership, Messi has initiated a youth tournament called the “Messi Cup” for under-16 teams. This competition attracts academy teams from across the globe, with the inaugural tournament won by Argentina’s River Plate, highlighting Messi’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
Despite these off-field ventures, Messi remains firmly focused on active play. He is set to kick off the 2026 MLS season with reigning champions Inter Miami against LAFC on 21 February. Fans may also see him representing Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, depending on squad selection.
Messi’s Club Ventures Overview
| Initiative | Details |
|---|---|
| Deportivo LSM | Uruguayan 4th division club co-founded with Luis Suárez; >3,000 members, ~80 staff |
| Messi Cup | Under-16 international youth tournament; inaugural winner River Plate (Argentina) |
| Future Plans | Own a professional club, start from lower divisions, gradually expand |
With his eyes set on ownership rather than coaching, Messi is poised to leave a lasting legacy not only on the pitch but also as a visionary figure in football management and youth development.