Football BaBe
Messi Hails De Paul’s Impact as Inter Miami Secures Crucial Win
In a thrilling display of teamwork and resilience, Lionel Messi and his Argentina compatriot Rodrigo De Paul united on the pitch for Inter Miami, marking a significant moment in the MLS season. This collaboration not only highlights the growing international appeal of the league but also promises to elevate the Herons’ performance as they chase silverware in the ongoing campaign.
- De Paul joins Inter Miami on loan
- Argentine makes debut for MLS side
- Messi praises midfielder
De Paul’s Challenging Debut Boosts Inter Miami in Leagues Cup
Just a short while after trading Atletico Madrid for a temporary stint in Miami, the versatile midfielder endured the full 96 minutes during his squad’s hard-fought 2-1 triumph against Atlas in the Leagues Cup on Wednesday. Post-match, Messi showered compliments on his national team colleague, while De Paul, surprised by the extent of his involvement, expressed profound admiration for the legendary 38-year-old forward.
Messi’s Endorsement Highlights De Paul’s Vital Role
Reflecting on the victory, Messi shared with ESPN: “Our partnership spans years and countless matches. He injects a surge of excellence into our lineup. Arriving with immense enthusiasm, despite minimal recent training, he pushed through relentlessly amid the sweltering heat, stifling humidity, and soaring temperatures that define playing here.”
De Paul’s Reflections on Teaming Up with Messi in MLS
Commenting on his inaugural appearance, De Paul noted: “I wasn’t sure if I’d last the entire match; I anticipated a shorter stint, but I managed it effectively. My confidence in this group is unwavering. [Messi] stands as the ultimate icon. It’s a privilege to have shared the field with him for numerous seasons in the national setup, claiming various honors, and now to join forces at the club level. This is a story I’ll cherish sharing with my kids in the future.”
Inter Miami’s Ambitions Soar with De Paul and Messi Partnership
Having dominated the Eastern Conference the previous year yet falling short of the MLS Cup, Inter Miami currently sits in fifth place this season. With recent updates showing the team averaging 2.1 goals per game in 2025, De Paul is determined to propel Messi’s outfit toward championship glory in the 2025/26 campaign, potentially serving as the pivotal element in achieving that success-much like how a seasoned conductor harmonizes an orchestra to peak performance.
Future Prospects and Upcoming Challenges for De Paul at Inter Miami
De Paul, with the option to commit long-term to the American club through 2029, alongside Messi, is set to line up together once more as Miami faces Necaxa this weekend in their second Leagues Cup group fixture out of three.
