De Paul reveals what he told Simeone before leaving Atlético Madrid to join Messi in MLS

Rodrigo De Paul is now fully under the guidance of Javier Mascherano at Inter Miami, just as the club faces a rough patch following Lionel Messi’s injury. The former Atlético Madrid midfielder has quickly become one of the team’s key players in the Leagues Cup, taking on a leading role while Messi recovers.

Asked about his exit from the Spanish capital, De Paul made it clear he left on good terms with Diego Simeone, although he still feels a sense of unfinished business at the Metropolitano.

“I spoke with Cholo,” said De Paul during his first press conference as a former Atlético player. “We have a great relationship. He always had my back. I learned a lot with him. We didn’t win titles together, but we enjoyed big Champions League nights. Atlético was where I earned the chance to go win a World Cup.” His comments made headlines, marking the end of a complicated but formative chapter in his career.

A love-hate relationship with Atlético Madrid fans

De Paul had a mixed run in Madrid. At times, fans applauded his effort and quality, while at others, his form drew criticism. Still, the Argentine midfielder looks back with appreciation.

“If I reached the World Cup in the shape I did, it was thanks to Atlético,” he explained. “Cholo is one of the most influential coaches in my career. Four years of ups and downs, but I learned a lot. That’s what I’ll remember most.”

His numbers with Atlético Madrid speak for themselves: 186 appearances, 14 goals, 26 assists. Though he didn’t win any major trophies, he was named the club’s Player of the Month three times. Now, Johnny Cardoso from Real Betis has been brought in to replace him, as Atlético undergoes a summer of transition.

A new chapter in Miami

Now it’s all about Miami. De Paul has instantly stepped into a leadership role as the club chases a second straight Leagues Cup title. With recent wins over Atlas and Necaxa, the club remains competitive—despite Messi’s absence due to injury.

Messi’s injury and expected return

Following the draw against Necaxa (and Inter Miami’s win on penalties), Messi underwent medical testing. The club released a statement saying:

“Messi underwent medical exams to assess the muscle discomfort he experienced during the Leagues Cup match against Necaxa, which forced him off the field… Results confirmed a minor muscle injury in his right leg. His return will depend on clinical evaluation and response to treatment.”

While not considered a serious injury, it’s expected that Messi could return around August 10, when Inter Miami might face LA Galaxy in the Leagues Cup Round of 16. However, the club is unlikely to take risks with its star, especially with MLS being the top priority. For now, the spotlight shifts to Rodrigo De Paul, who looks to guide Inter Miami forward during Messi’s recovery and possibly deliver David Beckham’s third trophy as club owner.