Rodrigo de Paul, a name synonymous with grit, energy, and unwavering commitment, has cemented himself as a vital cog in both Atlético Madrid and the Argentinian national team. A dynamic midfielder, De Paul’s game is characterized by his tireless running, tenacious tackling, and surprisingly deft creative touch.
Born in Sarandí, Argentina, De Paul began his professional career with Racing Club, showcasing glimpses of his potential early on. His performances garnered attention from Europe, leading to a move to Valencia in 2014. While his time in La Liga was initially inconsistent, it provided valuable experience and exposed him to a higher level of competition. A return to Racing Club followed before he truly blossomed during his five-year stint with Udinese in Serie A.
In Italy, De Paul transformed into a complete midfielder. He became the engine room of the Udinese side, dictating play, winning back possession, and contributing significantly to their attacking output. His dribbling skills, vision, and ability to deliver pinpoint passes made him a constant threat. He routinely topped the charts for tackles won and chances created, demonstrating his exceptional work rate and creative flair. His performances in Serie A firmly established him as one of the league’s premier midfielders and attracted the attention of Atlético Madrid.
Diego Simeone, known for his demanding and tactically astute approach, saw in De Paul the perfect embodiment of his footballing philosophy. He brought De Paul to Madrid in 2021, recognizing his potential to add dynamism and steel to the Atlético midfield. De Paul has seamlessly integrated into Simeone’s system, displaying the same relentless energy and combative spirit that characterized his time in Italy. While his offensive output might be slightly less pronounced in Atlético’s more structured approach, his contribution to winning back possession and shielding the defense is invaluable.
However, it is on the international stage with Argentina where De Paul has truly shone. He has become an integral part of Lionel Scaloni’s squad, forming a formidable partnership with players like Lionel Messi, Giovani Lo Celso, and Leandro Paredes. He played a pivotal role in Argentina’s Copa América triumph in 2021, providing crucial assists and demonstrating unwavering dedication throughout the tournament. His tireless running and willingness to track back and defend allowed Messi the freedom to operate further up the pitch, unlocking his full potential.
His connection with Messi is particularly noteworthy. De Paul is often seen as Messi’s bodyguard on the pitch, fiercely protecting him from opposition challenges and ensuring he has the space and time to create magic. He is a vocal leader and motivator, constantly encouraging his teammates and driving them forward. This leadership, coupled with his undeniable talent, has made him a fan favorite and a crucial figure in Argentina’s recent successes, culminating in their World Cup victory in Qatar 2022, where he again played a vital role.
Rodrigo de Paul is more than just a midfielder; he is the heartbeat of his teams. His relentless energy, tactical awareness, and unwavering commitment make him a valuable asset to any side he plays for. From his early days in Argentina to his current standing as a key player for Atlético Madrid and a World Cup winner with Argentina, De Paul’s journey is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in his abilities.