Lionel Messi completes takeover of second Spanish club this year

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Lionel Messi has become the majority owner of another Spanish club after completing the acquisition of second-tier side CD Eldense pending regulatory approval.

The 39-year-old takes over his second club in Spain this year after the purchase of UE Cornella, based in Barcelona, in April.

The former Argentina and Barcelona forward, who currently plays for Inter Miami, last month agreed a deal to acquire all the shares of Eldense held by a Colombian investment group, the previous majority shareholder.

A club statement read: “Club Deportivo Eldense officially announces the acquisition of the entity by Leo Messi, beginning a new and exciting stage in the more than 100 years of history of the institution.

“The arrival of one of the most important figures in the history of sport marks the beginning of a long-term project with the aim of boosting the sporting, institutional and social development of Eldense.

“Founded in 1921, Eldense faces this new stage with the ambition to consolidate and grow in professional football, while projecting its roots, history and blue and red feeling.

“The transaction is pending the required authorisation from the CSD under the terms established in sports law.”

Eldense have started the season in poor form and will hope Messi’s arrival can spark a change in fortunes, with the club currently sat 19th after four losses in seven matches, fighting to avoid relegation.

Additional reporting by Reuters

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