Lionel Messi buys UE Cornellà: Barcelona legend takes over club linked to Nigerian midfielder

When Lionel Messi made his name at FC Barcelona, he became closely tied to the culture and football identity of Catalonia, Afrik-Foot reports.

Now, years after leaving the club, that connection has taken a new shape. The Argentine forward has completed the full purchase of UE Cornellà, a modest side based just outside Barcelona.

Cornellà currently compete in the lower levels of Spanish football, but they are widely respected for their youth system. Over the years, the club has helped develop players who have gone on to shine at the top level, including Jordi Alba and Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.

Messi’s decision to take full ownership is seen as a long-term project, with a strong focus on nurturing young players and building a stable football structure.

In a statement, the club described the move as part of a vision rooted in Messi’s long-standing relationship with Barcelona and Catalonia. His aim is not just to invest money, but to help grow talent and strengthen the club’s foundations. It also reflects a wider trend in football, where leading players move into ownership roles, following examples like David Beckham, who has played a major role at Inter Miami.

Despite its strong academy reputation, Cornellà’s senior team has struggled in recent seasons, suffering relegations that have pushed them down the league system. Messi’s arrival is therefore seen as a turning point, offering hope that the club can rebuild and compete at a higher level again.

Uche and Messi: A Nigerian link in Cornellà’s history

While Cornellà is a Spanish club with deep local roots, it also has a small but notable connection to Nigeria through Kenechukwu Uchenwa, often known simply as Uche. He remains the only Nigerian player to have represented the club.

Uchenwa first joined Cornellà in 2015 after leaving RCD Mallorca. Playing mainly as a defensive midfielder, he quickly became a regular figure in the team. Standing tall and strong in the air, he provided balance and protection in front of the defence during his first spell, which lasted until the end of 2016.

After leaving to continue his career elsewhere in Spain, Uchenwa returned briefly in 2019 for a second stint. His journey also included an early professional appearance in the Copa del Rey, where he featured against Deportivo de La Coruña.

Overall, Uche made 51 appearances for UE Cornellà, netting one goal. While he may not be a widely known name globally, his connection to Cornellà places a Nigerian footprint in the club’s history.

Now, with one of football’s greatest-ever players Messi at the helm, Cornellà is entering a new era.