“I’m ready” - Rodrigo De Paul says he’s prepared to face ‘challenge’ after linking up with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami

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New Inter Miami midfielder Rodrigo De Paul has expressed his readiness for the new chapter of his career after teaming up with Lionel Messi in Florida. The Argentine midfielder left Atletico Madrid to join the MLS outfit on a loan deal which will be made permanent afterwards.

De Paul made an Instagram post of his unveiling as a new Inter Miami player featuring pictures with his children. He also had pictures with Messi, Luis Suarez, and new coach Javier Mascherano, and showed his preparedness with his caption.

"So happy for this great challenge in my career, I'm ready!. COME ON INTER!🩷🖤"

Inter Miami have completed a shock swoop for Argentina international Rodrigo De Paul, reuniting him with national team captain Lionel Messi. The 31-year-old midfielder joins the MLS side after four years in Spain with Atletico Madrid. He featured in all of Los Colchoneros' group games at the FIFA Club World Cup last month.

De Paul decided against extending his contract with the Spanish giants beyond its 2026 expiry, forcing the club to consider offers for him or risk losing him for free. He decided to move to the MLS, ending a stint in Europe that has seen him play for Valencia and Udinese, as well.

Lionel Messi's time at Inter Miami has coincided with the club spending more heavily on new recruits, and the Argentine midfielder is the latest. They will pay around €15 million to sign him permanently at the end of his loan spell, and he has taken the number 7 shirt at the club.

MLS chief explains Lionel Messi ban decision following De Paul news

MLS commissioner Don Garber has spoken for the first time since the league's verdict on Lionel Messi was announced. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner was handed a one-match ban for missing the All-Star game alongside Jordi Alba.

Garber revealed in a chat on Saturday that the decision was a tough one that had to be taken despite his understanding of the circumstances. He pointed out that he respects Messi's decision to absent himself from the game in Austin but that the 38-year-old had to face the consequences.

"It was a very difficult decision. I know Lionel Messi loves this league. I don't think there's a player - or anyone - who has done more for MLS than Messi. I fully understand, respect, and admire his commitment to Inter Miami, and I respect his decision. Unfortunately, we have a long-standing policy regarding participation in the All-Star Game and we had to enforce it", he said via Tribal Football.

Inter Miami will be without their talismanic number 10 and captain Messi when they face FC Cincinnati in the MLS. The Herons are seven points behind their opponents, who lead the way in the Eastern Conference having played three games more. They will have new signing Rodrigo De Paul in the stands with Messi and Alba as he is not expected to debut in the game.

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About the author

Sulayman Salahudeen

Sulayman is a European and international football writer at Sportskeeda covering news and transfer rumors. He has an overall experience of 4 years, having previously worked at the likes of SportsRation and ExtraTimeTalk. His tryst with the sport happened at a young age, playing it at home and watching the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

Sulayman has a good feel for the game, which is reflected in his descriptive articles. He double checks information via multiple sources for accuracy, and only uses top-tier platforms like Transfermarkt and Opta for statistical information. His experience and exploits in the industry have led Sulayman to cover the Nigerian Professional League for three years along with games involving the Nigerian national team. He has also worked in F1, joining hands with industry veterans to provide a smooth viewing experience in Nigeria.

Sulayman hails Lionel Messi as the one true GOAT, and his brace in Argentina’s 2005 U20 FIFA World Cup final win over Nigeria left a lasting impact on him. He also supports Chelsea at club level, having followed their dominance under Jose Mourinho. Sulayman also follows other leagues with Nigerian players like Eredivisie, Saudi Pro League, Turkish Super Lig, and more. When not writing, he enjoys cooking and eating.

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