Inter Miami coach Mascherano addresses rumors of Argentina star Rodrigo De Paul joining Messi in MLS

Rumors have circulated that Rodrigo De Paul could be heading to Major League Soccer to reunite with Lionel Messi — and Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano has now addressed the speculation.

For several days, reports have suggested that Argentina star Rodrigo De Paul might make the move from Europe to join Lionel Messi at Inter Miami. Speaking on the subject for the first time, coach Javier Mascherano addressed the situation directly.

“I’ve also read and heard what’s been reported in the media… There’s nothing official regarding Rodrigo De Paul,” Mascherano clarified during a press conference in Miami on Friday, as shared by Deporte Total USA on X.

“I always say the same thing: we need to be cautious because he’s a player under contract with another club, and I don’t like speaking about players who don’t belong to our team,” Javier added. “If something changes in the future, I’ll have no problem talking about it.”

That said, Mascherano made it clear that the idea of bringing De Paul to Inter Miami is certainly appealing to him, given the midfielder’s profile and his continued high-level performance at age 31.

“He’s a high-quality player, a World Cup champion, he plays for the Argentina national team and has been competing in Europe for a long time. Players like that are the ones we like,” the Inter Miami coach emphasized. However, he also offered a key disclaimer: “But I don’t know anything about it.”

Brian Rodriguez, another name linked to Inter Miami

While the Rodrigo De Paul rumors have been gaining traction recently, the situation appears different for Brian Rodriguez. The Uruguayan forward previously stated publicly that he had been in contact with Inter Miami: “The interest is real. We’ve been talking for a few weeks. I had the honor of speaking with Luis Suarez… It’s my dream to play with him and with Messi.”

More than a month has passed since those comments, and no concrete developments have occurred. When asked about the possibility, Javier Mascherano was far less direct than he was regarding De Paul. “Specifically about Brian Rodriguez, I have no idea. At least I haven’t spoken about him,” said the coach.

Mascherano explains Inter Miami’s challenges in signing new players

During the same press conference, Javier Mascherano also touched on how he works with Inter Miami’s executives in the search for reinforcements — and what obstacles the club faces. “I haven’t given specific names because it would be irresponsible,” he explained.

“There are also challenges when it comes to signing due to the salary cap. We do talk about positions, and within that, we consider alternatives. There are two or three options depending on how the financial aspect works out,” Mascherano said.

From: bolavip.com