Lionel Messi, the legendary football superstar, has revealed exciting insights about his post-retirement ambitions. Known worldwide as a FIFA World Cup winner and Inter Miami star, Messi has ruled out coaching as a future path, instead expressing a strong desire to own and manage his own football club. This decision highlights his commitment to nurturing young talent and shaping the next generation of footballers while leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Lionel Messi Prefers Ownership Over Coaching
In a recent interview with Luzu TV, Messi emphasized that he does not see himself as a coach. “I do not see myself as a coach. I like the idea of being a manager, but I’d prefer to be an owner. I would like to have my own club, start from the bottom, and make it grow. To give kids the opportunity to develop and achieve something important,” Messi explained.
This ambition showcases Messi’s long-term vision for football, focusing not just on personal success but also on creating a platform for young players to thrive. By opting for ownership, Messi plans to influence club culture, player development, and strategic growth at every level, rather than limiting himself to tactical coaching responsibilities.
Early Steps: Deportivo LSM in Uruguay
Messi has already taken concrete steps toward this goal by partnering with his longtime teammate Luis Suarez to launch Deportivo LSM, a fourth-division club in Uruguay. Currently, the club boasts 3,000 members and employs 80 professionals, underlining Messi’s commitment to building a robust structure from the ground up.
This move demonstrates Messi’s strategic thinking and willingness to invest in the foundations of football. By starting at a lower division, Messi ensures a hands-on approach, directly influencing player development, recruitment policies, and operational decisions. This approach reflects a dedication to nurturing talent in a practical, sustainable way.
Launching the Messi Cup
Further cementing his commitment to youth development, Messi introduced the Messi Cup, an under-16 international tournament hosted in Miami. The tournament featured eight academy teams from around the globe, providing young players with an opportunity to gain competitive experience and international exposure.
The inaugural Messi Cup concluded with River Plate defeating Atletico Madrid in a thrilling final. Messi’s focus on fostering competitive opportunities for young talent reflects his broader philosophy of giving back to the football community while shaping the future of the sport.
Continuing Stardom at Inter Miami
Even as Messi prepares for life after football, he remains a dominant force on the field. His recent contract extension with Inter Miami until 2028 ensures that he could continue playing professionally well into his 40s.
In the 2025 MLS season, Messi scored 29 goals and provided 19 assists in 28 matches, leading Inter Miami to the MLS Cup. Despite not scoring in the final, he was instrumental with key assists that secured a 3-1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps FC. His ability to maintain peak performance while planning for the future demonstrates his unmatched dedication and professionalism.
Global Influence and Outreach
Messi’s 2025 “GOAT Tour” in India exemplified his global influence. The three-day tour took him to Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, where he met key figures like Rahul Gandhi, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, ICC chairman Jay Shah, and Indian sports icons Sunil Chhetri and Sachin Tendulkar.
This tour not only delighted fans but also emphasized Messi’s role as a global ambassador for football. By combining fan engagement, philanthropy, and talent promotion, Messi continues to expand his influence both on and off the pitch.
Messi’s Philosophy: Legacy Beyond Playing
Messi’s post-retirement plans underline a philosophy centered on legacy. Unlike many retired players who transition to coaching, Messi intends to impact football structurally and strategically. Ownership allows him to influence club culture, talent pipelines, and global football strategy, ensuring his contributions extend far beyond personal accolades.
Messi’s approach also emphasizes mentorship. By creating platforms like Deportivo LSM and the Messi Cup, he is offering young athletes a structured path to professional football, reinforcing his belief in nurturing talent rather than simply managing established players.
Preparing for the Final World Cup
As Messi approaches his potential final FIFA World Cup in June 2026 at age 38, the football world anticipates one last display of his brilliance on the international stage. Even as he looks toward ownership, Messi continues to lead Argentina with unmatched skill, demonstrating that planning for the future does not come at the expense of present performance.
Conclusion: From Legend to Football Visionary
Lionel Messi’s post-retirement plans reflect a bold, visionary approach to football. By prioritizing club ownership and youth development over coaching, Messi aims to create a lasting impact on the sport. With initiatives like Deportivo LSM and the Messi Cup, he is building a legacy that empowers the next generation of football talent while maintaining his status as a global football icon.
Messi’s journey from record-breaking player to strategic football owner highlights the evolution of modern sports stars—balancing personal achievements with broader contributions to the game. His vision promises to inspire both players and fans for decades to come.
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