Messi-linked Eldense hires coach Javi Calleja until 2028
Inter Miami forward Leo Messi, left, front, works out during a training session ahead of the Campeones Cup soccer match against Cruz Azul, Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Credit: AP/Lynne Sladky
MADRID — Lionel Messi 's new team in Spain has hired Javi Calleja as coach.
Second-division Eldense said Wednesday that Calleja had been hired on a contract until June 2028.
He has first-division experience with Spanish clubs Villarreal and Alaves, and twice led Villarreal to fifth place in the league.
In the second division, Calleja has coached Levante and Oviedo.
Eldense said last week that Messi was set to become the club's majority shareholder. The Argentina great has reached a preliminary agreement with the owners.
The deal will see him buy the shares held by Grupo TH Soluciones, subject to the completion of the remaining legal and contractual procedures.
Eldense will become the second Spanish club that Messi has invested in. Earlier this year, he became the owner of a fifth-division side, Barcelona-based UE Cornella.
Eldense is based near the port city of Alicante in southeast Spain.
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