In a recent conversation with Simplemente Fútbol, Rodrigo De Paul shared insightful reflections on his experience with the Argentina national team, including his bond with Lionel Messi and the path to their 2022 FIFA World Cup victory.
De Paul expressed a strong belief in the team’s potential from his first moments with the squad, stating, “When I got to the national team and saw Messi, I said, ‘We’re going to be champions.’ I didn’t say it to motivate anyone. I believed it.” This unwavering confidence was crucial, especially after the team’s unexpected defeat to Saudi Arabia in their initial match. Both De Paul and Messi opted to forgo visiting their families on the team’s rest day, choosing instead to confer privately. “We were too affected. We stayed in a room talking for hours. We started off upset, but by the time dinner came around, we had already shifted the energy. That conversation helped,” he recalled.
De Paul highlighted Messi’s unique influence within the group, noting, “He doesn’t speak a lot, but his actions set the tone.” This discipline became evident in their preparation and communication, both on and off the pitch. “Sometimes we just look at each other and know what’s needed to reorganize the team. It makes the process more fluid,” De Paul noted regarding their synergy during matches.
Reflecting on the World Cup Final against France, he emphasized the team’s sense of control during the game, stating it was likely their best performance. Key players, including Messi, Julián, Alexis, and Enzo, significantly contributed to their progression through the tournament, underscoring Messi’s pivotal goal against Mexico as a turning point.
Beyond football, De Paul shared his personal motivations, revealing his desire for fulfillment over financial gain. After a period of solitude at Valencia, he sought a place where he felt appreciated. “Sometimes it’s not about the financial side. It’s how a club makes you feel. When Udinese gave me the No. 10 shirt, I felt they trusted me. That matters more than a contract,” he explained.
De Paul also reminisced about his inspiration, Juan Román Riquelme, stating, “If you asked me who I admired, it was Riquelme.” He closed the interview by reflecting on the emotional power of football: “It brings out every emotion. Joy, sadness, pressure. And all it takes is a ball.”
This interview underscores the importance of belief, teamwork, and emotional connection in sports, highlighting how personal passion can align with collective success. It’s a reminder of the human side of competition, showing that beyond skill, it’s the relationships and motivations that drive athletes to greatness.