Rodrigo De Paul didn't have any formal training sessions with his new teammates before making his Inter Miami debut, but that didn't stop the 2022 FIFA World Cup champion from showing just how impactful he can be in MLS.
De Paul's world-class quality was on full display in Wednesday's 2-1 victory over LIGA MX side Atlas FC, slotting right into the Herons' starting XI for their Leagues Cup 2025 Phase One opener at Chase Stadium.
The Argentine engine went the full 90 minutes in his first game since his blockbuster arrival from LaLiga giants Atlético Madrid, concluding his shift with a game-high 54/58 passes completed (93%), three chances created, four accurate long balls, eight recoveries, three defensive actions, three duels won and three fouls drawn.
"To see the type of performance that he showed, and the way that he gave of himself to the last minute, speaks of who he is," head coach Javier Mascherano said postgame.
"We needed a type of player like this one, who not only makes this attitude contagious to the other teammates, but also shows it with facts. We just want to tell him to be himself ... and to have that energy be contagious among all of the players."
World Cup-winning quality
De Paul provided his new club with an infectious energy and bite in midfield alongside Sergio Busquets, helping spur his teammates on to all three points in their Leagues Cup opener.
Aside from his relentless effort, Mascherano applauded De Paul's skill and leadership qualities, as well as his special relationship with superstar Lionel Messi. Together, they've helped Argentina win three international titles.
"He is one of the best players of the World Cup-winning team, and he provides this type of quality inside and outside of the field," Miami's manager said of his new midfielder.
"All of us who have had the possibility of playing with Leo, players that have that type of connection with him, we need to take advantage of that, because these are few and far between, this type of player. And they have a knowledge of this game that allows us to order ourselves.
"And, I mean, he has a very particular energy, right?"
Promising start
Messi spoke about the importance of adding De Paul midseason as the Herons seek a second-ever Leagues Cup title and an MLS Cup breakthrough.
"We know each other well, we've played many games together, and honestly, it's a leap in quality to play with him on this team," the legendary Argentine No. 10, who assisted Miami's goals by Telasco Segovia (58') and Marcelo Weigandt (90+6'), said in Spanish to Apple TV post-game.
"He has so much desire. Today, he ran everything, and that means a lot considering the heat, an incredible physical performance. He competed well and is an important addition to the team."
With one match and one victory under his belt, De Paul will look to build on his successful start with upcoming Leagues Cup tests vs. Necaxa (Aug. 2) and Pumas (Aug. 6).
"I have a lot of faith in this team," stated De Paul. "I see players I know well, Argentines I’ve watched come through here and perform well, and things have gone well for our national team because of it.
"I think the team is good. The way we play is good, but physically, we can do it too. Overall, this is a group that can compete for titles."
