In a stunning move that has rocked the world of football and Major League Soccer (MLS), Inter Miami officially announced the activation of their option to purchase Argentine star Rodrigo De Paul, adding him to their star-studded squad led by the legendary Lionel Messi. This move underscores the American club's ambitious goals of dominating domestic and continental competitions, capitalizing on the strong bond between the players both on and off the field.
The "bodyguard" reunited with his commander
This deal is particularly significant given Rodrigo De Paul's close relationship with Argentina's captain, Lionel Messi. De Paul was dubbed Messi's "bodyguard" during the 2022 Qatar World Cup, thanks to his tireless fighting spirit in midfield and his unwavering defense of his captain. De Paul's move to Inter Miami means a revival of this successful partnership that brought glory to the Albiceleste, but this time in the pink jersey of the club, on American pitches.
Inter Miami Project: More than just a team
Since David Beckham and his partners took over the club and signed Lionel Messi, Inter Miami has become a magnet for the world's biggest football stars. Following the arrivals of Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suárez, the signing of De Paul adds a new dimension to the team. This time, the club isn't signing a star in the twilight of his career, but rather a midfielder at the peak of his physical and technical abilities, sending a powerful message about the seriousness of the club's sporting project and its desire to build an invincible team.
Technical and tactical addition
Technically, De Paul is the missing piece in Tata Martino's squad. He possesses tremendous physical attributes, exceptional tactical vision, the ability to link the lines, and a fierce fighting spirit. His presence in midfield will give Messi and Suarez more freedom in attack, as De Paul will handle defensive duties, high pressing, and ball recovery – roles he has mastered with distinction at Atletico Madrid and with the Argentinian national team.
Impact of the deal on the MLS
The impact of this deal extends far beyond Inter Miami, impacting Major League Soccer as a whole. Acquiring a key Argentine international and World Cup winner at the peak of his career strengthens MLS's position as a globally competitive league, not merely a retirement home for stars. This acquisition is expected to boost the league's market value and increase global viewership, especially with the growing number of fans eager to see Messi and his teammates reunited.
