Rodri De Paul Joins Inter Miami CF
De Paul's arrival at Inter Miami CF is a significant boost to the team, bringing experience, passion, and quality to the squad. His reunion with Messi is expected to attract even more top talents to the club, as the ownership, led by Mas, continues to use the club's association with Messi to lure world-class players to South Florida.
Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul has joined Inter Miami CF on loan from Atlético Madrid, with the option to make the move permanent, in a deal that reunites him with close friend and fellow Argentine international Lionel Messi.
The 31-year-old midfielder, known as 'Messi's bodyguard', is the latest international soccer superstar to join the team, which is owned by Jorge Mas. De Paul's decision to leave Atlético Madrid was motivated by his desire to prepare for the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, and to be close to the venue. He sought a future elsewhere after Atlético failed to offer him the terms he wanted in a new contract.
Inter Miami's co-owner Mas personally negotiated the deal with De Paul, and the talks accelerated when Mas traveled to Spain to finalize the terms. The club will pay De Paul a prorated $1.5 million for the duration of his loan, with the option to make his move permanent in December. The signing of De Paul marks a shift for Inter Miami, as he arrives in South Florida at the height of his powers, off the back of one of the best campaigns of his career.
The deal is seen as a creative solution to the challenges posed by MLS' roster rules, and it highlights the club's determination to build a championship-winning team. With De Paul on board, Inter Miami is expected to reach new heights in MLS, and his connection with Messi is likely to be a key factor in the team's success.