Carolina Holguín, who has stepped down as president of the club, welcomed Messi in a statement shared on the club's official social media channels. "The CD Eldense begins a new era in the hands of Lionel Messi, for me, the greatest living legend of world football," she said. Holguín also praised Messi's history, stating that "his story speaks for itself." The club, which is celebrating its 105th anniversary, has a strong following in the city of Elda, with Holguín urging Messi to "respect what it means to the people" and "bring great dreams to Elda."