Football icon Lionel Messi has made a surprising revelation about his future after hanging up his boots, stating he does not envision himself as a coach. Instead, the Argentine maestro sees his long-term role in football as a club owner, aiming to build a project from the ground up.
Messi's Clear Vision: Ownership Over Coaching
In an interview with Luzu TV that was recorded in December and aired in the USA recently, the 38-year-old Inter Miami forward outlined his post-retirement ambitions. "I don't see myself as a coach. I like management, but if I have to decide for one of the three I would like to be a (club) owner," Messi was quoted as saying by the Associated Press.
He elaborated on his dream, expressing a desire to create opportunities for young talent. "I would like to have my own football club, to be able to grow it, to start from the bottom and to be able to give the kids, the people, the opportunity to grow and make it an important club. If I had to choose, that's what would appeal to me most," Messi added.
Already a Stakeholder: From Uruguay to Miami
Messi is not just talking about a future dream; he is already actively involved in club ownership. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner partially owns a club called Deportivo LSM, which currently competes in Uruguay's fourth division. He co-owns this venture with his long-time friend and former Barcelona teammate, Luis Suarez, who also plays alongside him at Inter Miami.
Club founder Suarez described Deportivo LSM as a "family dream that began in 2018" in a video statement last May. "We have grown a lot with more than 3,000 members," Suarez said, highlighting the project's community focus. "I want to offer Uruguayan soccer, the place I love and where I grew up as a child, opportunities and tools for teenagers and children to grow."
Furthermore, Messi's current contract with Inter Miami includes a future minority ownership stake in the Major League Soccer franchise. The club already boasts English legend David Beckham as one of its co-owners.
The Present: Dominating MLS and Defending the World Cup
While planning for the future, Messi continues to excel on the field. He is believed to be on his final playing contract, having recently signed a three-year extension with Inter Miami that is likely to keep him there until the end of the 2028 MLS season.
The 2025 season was another testament to his greatness. Messi won the MLS Golden Boot after scoring 29 goals, five more than his closest rivals. He also provided 19 assists, bringing his total goal contributions to 48—just one shy of the league record. His performances also earned him a historic back-to-back MLS MVP award.
On the international stage, after leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022, Messi will now aim to defend the title later this year. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada, adding another chapter to his legendary career before he eventually transitions to the boardroom.
