Scaloni Supports De Paul's Move to MLS, Highlights His Performance

Rodrigo De Paul's decision to transfer from Atletico Madrid to Inter Miami ahead of the World Cup surprised many Argentina supporters, but national team coach Lionel Scaloni expressed support for the midfielder's move to Major League Soccer (MLS), focusing on his on-field contributions rather than the league he plays in.

"We are not interested in their leagues; we care about his performance. He’s playing at a very good level. When he comes in, he shows a good level," Scaloni said through a translator, praising the quality of play in MLS.

Despite the confidence in De Paul's form, Scaloni emphasized the importance of maintaining intensity throughout matches. "He knows he can’t relax," the World Cup-winning coach stated. "During the hydration break, I told him he can’t relax. He’s decisive when he doesn’t relax. He changed the game afterward."

De Paul stood out as arguably Argentina’s second-best player after Lionel Messi in their recent match. He contributed an assist on the opening goal, completed 92 percent of his passes, and made six defensive interventions. Additionally, he won five out of eight duels during the game.

Scaloni also commended the overall performance of Argentina’s midfield, which included Enzo Fernandez, former MLS player Thiago Almada, and Alexis Mac Allister. Fernandez completed nine passes into the final third, while Mac Allister’s long-range effort helped create another scoring chance for Messi later in the match.

Following this game, De Paul and the Argentina squad will have a six-day rest period before their next encounter against Austria in Dallas on June 22.