Family Management and Rapid Rise to Argentina's National Leagues
Following his lucrative contract extension with MLS side Inter Miami until 2028, Argentina captain Lionel Messi continues to build his off-pitch legacy. Since 2015, the eight-time Ballon d"Or winner"s family has owned Leones de Rosario FC in his hometown. Although Messi holds no official role, he closely tracks their matches from Miami.
The Argentine outfit operates as a true family business, presided over by Messi's brother Matias, alongside his sister Maria Sol and nephew Tomas in administrative roles. Originally based in Alvear, the ambitious club has recently relocated its home matches to Arroyo Seco with long-term plans to construct a brand-new stadium infrastructure.
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Leones FC secured a controversial direct affiliation into Primera C, the Argentine fourth division, bypassing traditional amateur promotion tournaments. Under current tactical manager Franco Ferlazzo, the high-flying squad currently occupies second place in their group, putting them firmly in contention for a historic promotion to the third tier of domestic football.
This venture reflects Messi's growing international club portfolio, which includes investments in Uruguay's Deportivo LSM and full ownership of Spanish fifth-tier side UE Cornella. These strategic moves hint at a comprehensive post-retirement blueprint focused on youth development, mirroring similar club investments by contemporary rivals like Kylian Mbappe and Cristiano Ronaldo.