Rodrigo De Paul’s exclusion from the latest Argentina national team roster has shifted the focus toward his performance and evolving role at Inter Miami. With the midfielder absent from the current national team squad, questions regarding his future with the side have gained momentum, La Nación reported.
For much of Lionel Scaloni’s tenure, De Paul was considered an untouchable element of the squad. His work rate and established partnership with Lionel Messi became central to the team’s identity. Now, that proximity to the captain is a daily reality in South Florida rather than a periodic occurrence during international windows. At 32, De Paul is attempting to balance his life in Miami with the high demands of the world champions, a challenge that has drawn varied assessments from observers.
Performance Trends in Major League Soccer
Since joining Inter Miami in July 2025, De Paul has recorded eight goals and 17 assists in 57 appearances. He scored a goal in the 3-1 final win over the Vancouver Whitecaps, helping the club win the 2025 MLS Cup. However, his 2026 campaign has been marked by inconsistency, drawing comparisons to the more dynamic version of the player seen during his peak years with the national team.
🚨 RODRIGO DE PAUL, NOT CALLED UP BY LIONEL SCALONI. ❌🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/4y3ba6Dreq
The transition from his “Motorcito” (Little Engine) persona—characterized by relentless box-to-box movement—to a more cerebral, tactical role has been evident. Under the guidance of managers Javier Mascherano, Guillermo Hoyos, and Kily González, De Paul has occupied various midfield positions, from a defensive pivot to a more advanced playmaker. While this versatility offers tactical options, his impact has fluctuated, leading to debate over his current form.
Conflicting Assessments of His International Future
Inter Miami coach Kily González remains a vocal supporter of the midfielder. Following a 2-2 draw with FC Cincinnati, González described De Paul as the team’s best player on the pitch, highlighting his aggressiveness and attitude.
Other observers offer a more cautious outlook. The consensus remains that his performance during the upcoming MLS playoffs will be a deciding factor in his chances of returning to the international stage.
Life in South Florida
De Paul’s move to the U.S. has integrated him into a familiar social circle, as he frequently spends time with Messi and Luis Suárez. His popularity remains high with fans, as evidenced by his jersey ranking among the top sellers in the league. Living in Miami Shores with his partner, Tini Stoessel, De Paul has faced the scrutiny that comes with his career, while his coach has defended his ability to balance personal life with professional performance.
The next major checkpoint for De Paul arrives on November 19, when the MLS playoffs begin. A strong performance in the postseason could serve as a platform for him to regain the form that made him a staple of the Argentina setup, providing a compelling case for a potential recall ahead of future international fixtures.
Worth a look
