Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul has transferred to Inter Miami, reuniting with longtime national-team teammate Lionel Messi [1].
The move brings two of Argentina's most successful players together in the U.S., strengthening Inter Miami's roster while De Paul maintains his standing with the national team heading into the global tournament.
De Paul's transfer was announced in July 2026 [2]. The midfielder has expressed a long-held desire to play with Messi outside of international competition. "I've dreamed of playing alongside Messi at club level for a long time," De Paul said [3].
Beyond his club commitments in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, De Paul has been named to Argentina's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup [4]. His inclusion follows a series of strong performances for the national team, though his role in the starting lineup has seen some fluctuation during recent matches.
Reports regarding his playing time have varied. Some sources said that manager Lionel Scaloni's decision to leave De Paul on the bench during a match against Jordan surprised observers [5]. However, other reports indicate he is expected to be in the starting lineup for a match against Algeria [6].
De Paul's arrival at Inter Miami also opens the possibility of a debut in the Leagues Cup [7]. The partnership is expected to mirror the chemistry the duo developed during Argentina's recent international successes, bringing a proven tactical connection to the Major League Soccer side.
As the 2026 World Cup [4] approaches, De Paul's dual role as a key Inter Miami player and an Argentine international puts him at the center of the growing intersection between U.S. club soccer and global superstars.
“"I've dreamed of playing alongside Messi at club level for a long time,"”
The reunion of De Paul and Messi at Inter Miami signals a strategic effort by the club to import established chemistry from the Argentine national team. By securing a player who is still viable for the 2026 World Cup, Inter Miami is not just adding talent, but is cementing its status as a primary destination for elite international players who wish to maintain their competitive edge while playing in the U.S.
