Despite playing for Inter Miami in MLS, Lionel Messi’s bond with Barcelona remains strong. The Argentine superstar has just spent €11.5 million (approximately RMB 89 million) to acquire a long-abandoned complex in the heart of the city, signaling his continued commitment to expanding his business interests in Catalonia. 
According to Spanish media, Messi’s company, Edificio Rostower, completed the purchase of the “Via Wagner” complex, located in one of Barcelona’s most exclusive neighborhoods, Turo Park. The roughly 4,000-square-meter building has been vacant since 1993 due to ownership disputes. Messi plans to fully renovate it into high-end commercial rental property, capitalizing on its prime location.
This acquisition is not Messi’s first investment in the region. At 38 years old, he has steadily built a diverse portfolio, including:
– **MiM boutique hotels** with properties across Catalonia.
– **Hincha restaurant chain**, a favorite among local fans.
– **Football club acquisition**, recently taking over UE Cornellà.
The real estate agency Santomera Bay, which handled the deal, noted that Messi’s continued investment in Barcelona sends a very positive signal to the local property market. His global brand not only boosts the value of the site but also reinforces international investor confidence in the city.
For Messi, Barcelona is more than the stage where he became a football legend—it’s a strategic center for his post-playing career. As he approaches the twilight of his playing days, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner is steadily transitioning into a formidable business mogul.