Rodrigo De Paul’s unexpected debut for Inter Miami alongside Lionel Messi has already hinted at a significant tactical shift that could elevate the team’s pursuit of major trophies.
Despite his move becoming official just hours before kickoff and without a single group training session due to visa complexities, De Paul was immediately thrust into the starting eleven for the crucial 2025 Leagues Cup opener against Atlas FC, playing the full 90 minutes in a dramatic 2-1 victory. This rapid integration highlights his perceived importance to the Inter Miami CF squad.
Initially deployed next to Sergio Busquets in central midfield within Javier Mascherano’s favored 4-4-2 formation, Rodrigo De Paul’s presence promises to reshape Miami’s midfield dynamics. This strategic placement suggests that other midfielders may need to adapt to wider roles, potentially impacting playing time for talents like Yannick Bright, Federico Redondo, and Benjamin Cremaschi within the MLS.
De Paul’s adaptability was evident as he shifted to a wider position in the second half, showcasing his tactical flexibility. Furthermore, his involvement in set pieces, including a first-half corner kick, indicates he will provide another valuable right-footed option for restarts, complementing Lionel Messi’s primary free-kick duties and diversifying Miami’s dead-ball attacking threats in the Leagues Cup.
Crucially, Rodrigo De Paul’s biggest impact may lie in becoming another highly trusted provider for Lionel Messi in the central park. His ability to deliver precise, simple passes exactly where the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner desires them allows Messi to initiate runs at defenders, disorganizing opposing defenses and creating dangerous opportunities, a vital football tactic.
De Paul’s arrival addresses a previous vulnerability for Inter Miami, where neutralizing Sergio Busquets could severely limit service to Lionel Messi. Now, with De Paul also commanding the midfield, even a successful attempt to mark Busquets out of the game will not be enough to stifle Miami’s offensive flow, adding a crucial layer of midfield control and creativity in the MLS.
While Rodrigo De Paul, at 31, is closer to his physical prime than many of Miami’s veterans, his full 90-minute debut suggests he too will be a near-constant fixture. This raises questions about the team’s overall athleticism, as Inter Miami has previously struggled against teams that physically outlast them in the second half. De Paul’s presence might make Miami’s early onslaught even more formidable, but could also contribute to late-game fatigue if not managed carefully.
Given Mascherano’s tendency to lean heavily on his veteran core—Messi, Busquets, and Alba often playing full matches despite their age—De Paul’s immediate immersion into the starting lineup underscores his perceived importance. His integration could solidify Miami’s starting XI, but consistent 90-minute performances from key players will be critical for sustained success across a demanding MLS season and beyond in the Leagues Cup.
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