After lengthy negotiations, Inter Miami finally secured the signing of Rodrigo De Paul, who departed Atletico Madrid following nine years in Europe split between Italy and Spain. The move allows him to reunite with close friend Lionel Messi — who, according to De Paul, played a key role in helping him settle in Miami.
The 31-year-old midfielder made his long-awaited debut against Atlas in the opening match of the 2025 Leagues Cup, putting in an impressive performance in the Herons’ victory. Beyond what happens on the field, however, De Paul was asked whether Messi had influenced his decision to come to the United States.
It’s no secret the two share a close bond built during their time with the Argentina national team. Still, while many assumed that Messi’s direct involvement pushed De Paul to join Miami, the midfielder clarified that wasn’t exactly the case — though Messi did play an important role behind the scenes.
“He had the humility to really get involved in the negotiations, mostly because he wanted to know if things were going well or if they might fall through. When everything was finalized, he called me, and as soon as I arrived, he came to welcome me and asked what I needed. He takes great care of me,” De Paul told ESPN in an interview, making it clear that Messi — who is expected to extend his contract with Miami through December 2028 — was attentive as a friend rather than as a negotiator.
Lionel Messi #10 and Rodrigo de Paul #7 of Inter Miami speak on the field in the second half during the Leagues Cup Phase One match against Atlas. (Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
Rodrigo De Paul’s stint at Atletico Madrid
After an impressive run at Udinese, Atletico Madrid spent €35 million to sign Rodrigo De Paul on a five-year deal. However, with one season still left on his contract, the Argentine midfielder decided to make the move to the United States.
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During his time with Los Colchoneros, De Paul made 186 appearances across all competitions, recording 14 goals and 26 assists. Despite his consistent performances, he was unable to win any major trophies with the Spanish club.
Messi on De Paul’s Inter Miami debut
Following Inter Miami’s win over Atlas, Lionel Messi spoke about Rodrigo De Paul’s debut with the club. “I felt good playing alongside Rodrigo — we’ve known each other for a long time and have played many matches together. The truth is he gives our squad a real boost in quality,” Messi said.
“Today he ran his heart out, and doing that here, with the humidity, the heat, and high temperatures, means a lot. We competed well and took home three important points,” the No. 10 added after the Leagues Cup match.
