Rodrigo De Paul, a prominent midfielder for Inter Miami, is reportedly planning to leave the club following Lionel Messi’s retirement from professional soccer. Their relationship, rooted in their time together on the Argentina national team, heavily influenced De Paul’s decision to sign with Inter Miami.
De Paul’s Journey to Inter Miami
De Paul transitioned to Inter Miami after departing from Atletico Madrid last summer. His signing was notable, marking one of the most expensive deals in Major League Soccer (MLS) history. The move was significantly inspired by Messi’s presence at the club.
Plans for the Future
- Age: 31 years old.
- Current contract with Inter Miami: Until December 2029.
- Potential departure: Once Messi retires.
According to reports from ESPN Argentina’s Tomas Davila, De Paul aims to return to his boyhood club, Racing Club de Avellaneda, after Messi hangs up his boots. He became a part of Racing’s academy before moving to Europe in 2016, playing for clubs including Valencia and Udinese.
The Impact of Messi’s Career
De Paul is set to join Messi in representing Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, where they will defend their title. This tournament could potentially be De Paul’s last major competition with the national team.
Future Considerations for Inter Miami
As Messi approaches the latter stages of his career, De Paul’s future with the club remains uncertain. Messi’s contract with Inter Miami goes until December 2028, and his decision regarding retirement will likely influence De Paul’s timeframe.
Should Messi retire after his contract ends, De Paul may choose to exit Inter Miami, potentially ending his tenure a year early. If Messi retires sooner, De Paul might also adjust his plans, solidifying the notion that his stay in Fort Lauderdale is limited.
With both players sharing a close bond, the trajectory of De Paul’s career seems intricately linked to the legendary forward, making the next few years crucial for both. El-Balad will continue to monitor any developments surrounding their future.
