Rodrigo De Paul has revealed that Lionel Messi played a key role in his decision to join Inter Miami, citing the influence of the Argentina captain as a deciding factor for his move.
The Herons secured the services of the 31-year-old earlier this week from Spanish side Atletico Madrid on an initial loan deal with an obligation to buy for €15 million.
De Paul’s transfer to Inter Miami sets up a thrilling reunion with captain Lionel Messi, with whom he lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy in 2022.
“Obviously, it was a joy [once it became a reality.] He had the greatness to get deeply involved in the negotiations, especially about a place where he wanted to know if it was on good terms,” De Paul said in an interview.
“He was very attentive. When it was done, there was a call. As soon as I arrived, Messi came to the club the next morning to meet me, to see what I needed, and how I was. A friendship. It was a super gratifying moment.”
The Argentina midfielder made an impressive debut in Inter Miami’s 2-1 win over Mexican side Atlas in the Leagues Cup opener on Wednesday night.
Lionel Messi provided both assists including for Marcelo Weigandt to score a late winner in the game, as the Herons began their campaign with a victory.
“Whenever I spoke with Leo, we had the dream of playing together, bringing what we had achieved with the Argentina national team to a club. Well, it was a dream that later took shape. They knew I had one year left on my contract with Atlético Madrid, and Jorge Mas then traveled to Madrid,” De Paul continued.
“Mas has an important relationship with the owner of Madrid. When it began to become a reality and gain momentum, we started talking about the dream of being able to share the club with Leo every day, on the pitch and in the locker room.”
Inter Miami next face another Mexican side Necaxa in the Leagues Cup on Sunday, as they hope to make it two straight wins in the competition.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
