Lionel Messi is now the co-owner of an eSports team.
On November 8th, Messi announced that he’s now the co-owner of the Argentina-inspired KRU eSports team. KRU eSports was founded by Aguero a year before the ex-Manchester City striker retired. Since then, the team has gone on to compete in competitions for games like Rocket League and Valorant to varying levels of success.
“Sergio Kun Aguero, CEO of KRU eSports and former professional football player, and Lionel Messi, the best footballer of all time, seal an alliance as partners of KRU, the eSports organization created in 2020 by Kun,” said the press release.
Aguero added his thoughts, saying he’s happy to have Messi on board: “I am happy to share a club with Leo, of course now in a new stage and with other challenges. It is an honor that he is part of KRU. He is the best footballer in history, and also a great friend.”
Messi’s off-the-field success reflects his on-the-field success for Inter Miami
Messi has been steadily growing his brand since the beginning of his career. His lifetime collaboration with Adidas has been fruitful, with the Argentine most recently becoming one of the best-selling jerseys in America.
His latest venture into eSports is just one of the many commercial endeavors the World Cup winner has lent his name to.
On the field, Messi has been just as successful.
The midfielder ended his first year with the team, racking up 14 G/A in all competitions. Furthermore, Messi helped Miami to its first title in club history this summer with a Leagues Cup victory.
As the organization shifts focus to 2024, Messi will continue to have an influence on Miami everywhere. With the team hoping to earn more silverware, the Argentinian will be crucial to the club’s goals.