2026 World Cup in doubt? Rodrigo De Paul reveals Scaloni’s thoughts on joining Lionel Messi at Inter Miami

Rodrigo De Paul’s move to Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami sparked doubts about his future role with Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026. However, he shared crucial insights from his conversation with head coach Lionel Scaloni that shed light on these concerns.

Inter Miami executed one of the summer’s most unexpected signings by securing world champion Rodrigo De Paul, shocking fans who believed he would stay in European soccer. This surprising move alongside Lionel Messi in MLS led to speculation about his future with the Argentine national team ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. In response, De Paul shared insights into Lionel Scaloni’s thoughts on the matter.

“I spoke with Scaloni and I was very clear with him about what he needed from me in order for me to continue being part of the Argentina national team project. He told me: ‘I know what you can give me on the field, I know who you are. The only thing I’m going to evaluate is what you do on the pitch. As long as you play and are physically fit…’ Those were the words I needed to make my decision,” Rodrigo De Paul stated in press conference.

The latter does not mean that Rodrigo De Paul is guaranteed a spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026 roster. Lionel Scaloni has made it clear on several occasions that the only player assured of a spot is Lionel Messi, should he wish to attend. However, De Paul will still compete for a place by demonstrating his performance and prominence on the pitch with Inter Miami as well as through his performances with the national team.

Rodrigo De Paul explains why he chose MLS over continuing his career in Europe

Rodrigo De Paul has been a crucial player for Atletico Madrid, under head coach Diego Simeone. Despite his significant role, journalist Ruben Uria revealed that De Paul requested to leave the team as soon as possible, right in the middle of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. In the last press of conference, Rodrigo explained the reasons that led him to pursue a career in MLS.

“I did have offers to stay in Europe. Coming to MLS was a personal and bold decision. I’ve always wanted to experience this league and lifestyle. With Leo’s arrival, the league’s visibility has grown massively. Inter is making history—and I want to be part of that,” Inter Miami star said.

With these statements, Rodrigo makes it clear that his move to MLS is not due to a diminished role at Atletico Madrid or a drop in performance. On the contrary, he arrives as a significant player who garnered strong offers from Europe. His choice to join Inter Miami is a personal one, not driven by any decline in his game. For that reason, fans anticipate he will be a game-changer for Lionel Messi’s team, aiming to lead them to their first-ever MLS Cup victory.

From: bolavip.com