After weeks of rumors, Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, a World Cup champion and celebrated Atletico Madrid player, is reportedly close to joining Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami. This move will see him reconnect with Lionel Messi, his former teammate. While contract specifics are still being finalized, multiple reports confirm De Paul’s imminent arrival at the club.
De Paul’s signing presents a fresh dynamic for Inter Miami’s midfield, contrasting with established stars like Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Messi — collectively known as the “Barcelona Boys.” At 31, De Paul brings youthful energy and durability that differ significantly from the veteran presence of the trio.
The complementary partnership between De Paul and Messi on the field
De Paul and Messi share a strong on-field understanding that enhances the team’s creative and tactical play. Messi’s brilliance relies on finding open space and having calm around him to unlock attacking opportunities. De Paul, known for his physicality and intelligent positioning, excels at creating this environment by intercepting play and maintaining control.
Describing their rapport, De Paul told The Athletic,
“A lot of the time, the analysis that I do while I’m playing leads me to try to make him [Messi] run less,”
and further explained,
“To make less wear and tear and to have more space to play with — these are things that cross my mind during the match. So the dialogue with him is constant. We understand each other with a look.”
This silent but effective communication between them promises to make their combined efforts far more impactful on the pitch.
David Beckham’s influence on De Paul’s career and style
De Paul, initially trained as a forward, has evolved into a relentless central midfielder whose playing style is marked by unceasing movement. Though not a flamboyant playmaker like David Beckham, De Paul admires the English icon and often pays tribute through his unconventional haircuts, many inspired by Beckham’s classic looks during his days at Manchester United and with England.
His move to MLS echoes more than just following Messi’s footsteps; it also honors Beckham’s legacy, who is an influential part-owner of Inter Miami. This connection underlines a deeper creative inspiration behind De Paul’s decision to join the league.
De Paul’s reputation as a tireless midfielder known as ‘El Motorcito’
Nicknamed “El Motorcito” (the Little Motor), De Paul is recognized globally for his remarkable stamina and work rate. During the previous Copa America, he covered over 32 miles across Argentina’s first three matches — the most of any team member and almost twice the distance Messi achieved.
This extraordinary endurance enables De Paul to support high-talent teammates by absorbing much of the physical exertion required in midfield, making him an ideal fit for Inter Miami’s style of play.
De Paul’s legendary status in northern Italy and leadership qualities
De Paul’s career flourished in northern Italy, especially during his time with Udinese, a club perched near Slovenia on Italy’s northeastern edge. Starting as an under-the-radar talent, he evolved into one of Udinese’s most influential figures, notching 66 combined goals and assists over five years. For the last 18 months of his tenure, he served as team captain, exemplifying his growing leadership role.
Luca Gotti, De Paul’s coach at Udinese, emphasized his mental and professional development, stating,
“He’s become a leader and is the first person to demand more of himself,”
and added,
“It’s infectious and you can see the fruits of this transformation on the pitch. When someone is becoming as strong mentally as he is, you can’t rule anything out.”
Gotti expressed confidence in De Paul’s adaptability, saying,
“He’ll be a success in whatever he tries his hand at.”
Significance of De Paul’s transfer to Inter Miami
Rodrigo De Paul’s addition to Inter Miami represents a strategic strengthening of the squad’s midfield, combining youthful vigor with tactical intelligence. His unique skill set complements Lionel Messi’s artistry, potentially elevating the team’s overall performance in MLS. As Inter Miami aims to build a competitive and exciting team, this signing could prove pivotal in their ambitions.
Beyond the field, De Paul’s connections to Messi and admiration for David Beckham deepen the club’s narrative, linking past legends with promising present talents. This move signals a new chapter for Inter Miami, with the prospect of sustained success shaped by experience, leadership, and relentless tenacity.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lionel Messi religious?
A. He grew up in a Roman Catholic family and shares their beliefs. He has two tattoos showing his faith: one is of Jesus with a crown of thorns on his right shoulder, and the other is a rosary on his forearm.
Q. Why did Lionel Messi cry?
A. Messi seemed to sprint at full speed but stumbled over his own feet. His captain’s armband was off, and he lost his right shoe while slowly leaving the field. Later, Messi sat on the Argentina sidelines, using an ice pack on his right ankle and hiding his face as he cried.