In a bold move that further strengthens Inter Miami’s growing roster of global stars, Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul is set to join Lionel Messi in Major League Soccer (MLS). The 31-year-old will leave Atlético Madrid, where he has played since 2021, to sign a short-term deal with Inter Miami, a contract that could potentially evolve into a multi-year agreement.
Highlights:
- Tireless energy and pressing ability
- Precision passing and tactical vision
- Versatility across midfield positions
- Leadership and chemistry with Messi
According to The Associated Press, the deal has been finalized, and though De Paul’s exact arrival date is still unconfirmed, sources indicate he could debut in time for the Leagues Cup, set to kick off later this month.
A Reunion Rooted in Chemistry and History
De Paul’s move is not just a headline—it’s a strategic reunion of Argentine football’s most effective midfield-to-forward duo. He and Messi have formed a deep on-field understanding over the years, most notably during Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph and Copa América victories in 2021 and 2024.
Rodrigo De Paul’s & Other Signs
De Paul’s signing adds to the growing list of ex-Barcelona and Argentina veterans at Inter Miami, which includes Sergio Busquets (37), Jordi Alba (36), and Luis Suarez (38)—all familiar faces for Messi and now, De Paul.
Ticket sales have surged, global viewership for MLS has expanded, and Inter Miami has become a destination for top-tier talent, echoing what David Beckham did for LA Galaxy in the mid-2000s—but on a much grander scale.
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Having spent the last four years at Atlético Madrid under Diego Simeone, De Paul developed a disciplined defensive mindset while maintaining his creative edge—a rare blend that makes him ideal for MLS, which demands physicality and flair.
De Paul previously played for Udinese in Serie A before moving to La Liga, and his international experience (58+ caps) will immediately boost Inter Miami’s midfield dynamics.
Roster Management and Designated Player Rules
Inter Miami currently has three Designated Players (DPs)—Messi, Busquets, and Alba—who are exempt from the salary cap. However, Busquets’ contract expires at the end of 2025, and if he chooses not to renew, a DP slot could open up for De Paul.
This could mean that De Paul, who is currently on a short-term deal, may seamlessly slide into the DP slot in 2026, giving Inter Miami even more flexibility to manage its roster under MLS rules.
What This Means for Inter Miami and MLS
Rodrigo De Paul’s signing is a signal of intent—not just from Inter Miami, but from Major League Soccer as a whole. This isn’t a retirement league anymore. MLS is evolving into a serious competitive arena capable of attracting and retaining world-class talent.
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The growing Argentine core at Inter Miami will also help the club build consistency, trust, and chemistry—essential ingredients in the grueling MLS schedule that spans almost the entire year.
As De Paul prepares to join the pink-and-black of Club Internacional de Fútbol Miami, fans can look forward to more thrilling football—and perhaps, a new chapter of dominance in MLS. Whether it’s Messi’s genius, Suarez’s finishing, Alba’s overlaps, or De Paul’s relentless drive, Inter Miami is now the most-watched team in North America.
