De Paul’s Emotional Tribute to Messi: A Stunning Goal and a Heartfelt Message Amidst Tragedy
Miami, FL – October 26, 2024 – In a poignant display of friendship and solidarity, Inter Miami midfielder Rodrigo De Paul delivered a breathtaking goal and an even more impactful tribute to his close friend and teammate, Lionel Messi, during the recent Leagues Cup Group A clash against Monterrey. De Paul’s stunning long-range strike was immediately followed by the emotional unveiling of Messi’s iconic No. 10 jersey, a gesture that resonated deeply across the football world, particularly given the recent passing of Messi’s father, Jorge Messi.
The night was already fraught with emotion for Inter Miami. Lionel Messi was absent from the crucial fixture, having returned to Rosario, Argentina, to be with his family following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, at the age of 68. In Messi’s absence, De Paul stepped into the spotlight, not only with his on-field performance but also with a gesture that transcended the game.
De Paul’s Stunning Tribute to Messi
The moment of brilliance arrived when De Paul unleashed a superb long-range effort, driving a low strike from outside the box directly into the bottom-left corner of the Monterrey net. The goal, a testament to De Paul’s skill and presence of mind, immediately shifted the momentum of the game.
What followed was an act of profound emotional significance. De Paul, in celebration, sprinted towards the corner flag, then meticulously took off his Inter Miami shirt. Beneath it, visible for all to see, was Messi’s famous No. 10 jersey. This was not a spontaneous act; it was a clearly planned tribute, carefully orchestrated by the 32-year-old midfielder, anticipating a moment to honor his friend.
The gesture underscored the deep bond between the two Argentina internationals. De Paul and Messi were pivotal figures in Argentina’s triumphant 2022 World Cup campaign and have maintained a close friendship, further solidified by De Paul’s subsequent move to Inter Miami. Their shared history also includes their joint participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Argentina clinched a runners-up finish. With Messi sidelined, De Paul’s goal served as a powerful and emotional reminder of their camaraderie, a silent promise of support during a time of grief.
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Messi Misses Match After Father’s Death
Messi’s absence from the match was a somber necessity, stemming from the death of his father, Jorge Messi. Jorge was more than just a parent; he was an integral architect of Lionel’s legendary football career. It was Jorge who accompanied a young Messi to Barcelona for the pivotal trial that ultimately opened the doors to La Masia, Barcelona’s renowned youth academy. He later assumed the crucial role of his son’s agent, meticulously managing various aspects of his career and business dealings.
His passing represents a deeply personal and professional loss for Messi and his entire family. De Paul’s carefully orchestrated tribute arrived at an incredibly challenging time for his friend, utilizing the biggest stage available to send a heartfelt message of support and empathy.
Beyond the emotional significance, the goal was also crucial for an Inter Miami side contending with the absence of several key players. De Paul, who joined the MLS club after a distinguished spell at Atletico Madrid, has quickly established himself as an indispensable presence in Miami’s midfield. Yet, in that defining moment, his immediate focus was not on his individual accomplishment or the game’s outcome. It was unequivocally on Messi.
Rodrigo De Paul’s simple yet profoundly powerful message to his absent friend and his grieving family resonated far beyond the pitch: they were in his thoughts, and in the thoughts of the entire team.
