From local Valencian roots to a full takeover by Lionel Messi
In short: Founded in 1921, CD Eldense has experienced a century of dramatic highs and lows. From corruption scandals and mass player releases to a historic streak of three consecutive promotions, the Spanish club has finally entered a new era under the ownership of football legend Lionel Messi.
Based in Elda within the Valencia community, CD Eldense is one of the region's oldest football institutions. Since joining the Valencian Football Federation in 1924, the club has navigated the complexities of the Spanish league system. Their history is marked by significant volatility, including a 2017 scandal where club officials, including coach Filippo Vito di Pierro and manager Nobile Capuani, were arrested following allegations of match-fixing. This crisis, sparked by a 0–12 defeat to Barcelona B, led to the suspension of all sporting activities and the release of 12 players.
The club has recently undergone a remarkable sporting resurgence. After years in the lower tiers, Eldense achieved three consecutive promotions, moving from the fourth-level Segunda División RFEF to the third-level Primera Federación, and finally to the Segunda División. This ascent was completed on 25 June 2023, following a 4–4 aggregate playoff draw against Real Madrid Castilla. This return to the second tier ended a 59-year absence from that level of Spanish football.
The club's ownership has also seen a major transformation. Following a period of control by the Colombian investment group TH Soluciones Group S.A.S., led by Juan Carlos Trujillo, a new chapter began in late 2026. In September 2026, Argentine superstar Lionel Messi reached an agreement to acquire a 100% stake in the club. The deal, which required authorization from Spain's Consejo Superior de Deportes, marks a significant shift for the club, which currently plays its home matches at the Estadio Municipal Nuevo Pepico Amat.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: CD Eldense
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