Rodrigo De Paul officially joined Inter Miami in late July 2025 on loan from Atlético Madrid, debuting in the Leagues Cup against Atlas FC. The Argentine midfielder's arrival raises questions about Sergio Busquets' future in the squad and how De Paul's leadership could influence young talents like goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo. As Inter Miami adjusts its roster to fit league rules, the club may be entering a new era of midfield strategy.
De Paul's Arrival and Early Impact
Inter Miami confirmed the signing of Rodrigo De Paul on loan through the end of the 2025 MLS season, with an option to buy valid until 2029, according to Inter Miami CF. The club described the 31‑year‑old World Cup and Copa América champion as bringing 'world-class quality' and 'title-winning experience'. Nicknamed El Motorcito, De Paul is known for his tireless work rate and leadership on and off the pitch.
Although his International Transfer Certificate and P‑1 visa were still pending at the time, De Paul had trained independently to maintain fitness and was cleared to play. As reported by ESPN, he was named in the starting XI for the Leagues Cup match, lining up alongside Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Luis Suárez. He played the full 90 minutes, anchoring the midfield with intensity, ball recovery and smooth link-up play.
Club co-owner David Beckham praised his signing, stating that De Paul brings 'leadership, hunger and world-class quality' to the squad.
Rodrigo De Paul arriving with Messi and Suarez for his Inter Miami debut 🥶
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 30, 2025
(via @InterMiamiCF) pic.twitter.com/TE7jYPwMxr
Debut win ✔️
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 31, 2025
Rodrigo De Paul joined @LeaguesCup Wrap-Up after a dramatic victory in his @InterMiamiCF debut. pic.twitter.com/ukXb7Kvizs
Busquets' Role in Question
Sergio Busquets, now 37, has been a key figure since joining the club in 2023. However, De Paul's signing has prompted speculation about the future of Inter Miami's Designated Player (DP) structure. With Messi, Busquets and Jordi Alba already occupying DP slots, Inter Miami used Targeted Allocation Money (TAM) to sign De Paul.
According to CBS Sports, the club completed a trade with Atlanta United involving General Allocation Money and an international roster slot to make the deal compliant with MLS regulations.
While Busquets remains valued for his vision and composure, signs of fatigue last season have raised concerns. In contrast, De Paul offers a more energetic, box-to-box profile, suggesting a possible reshaping of the midfield hierarchy.
Head coach Javier Mascherano appears to favour a quicker, high-pressing system over the slower possession-based approach previously employed. In his debut, De Paul served as a mobile connector between defence and attack, displaying instant chemistry with Messi. His presence may usher in a new tactical phase for Inter Miami across both league and cup competitions.
What It Means for Rocco Ríos Novo
De Paul's arrival could indirectly support younger players such as 23-year-old goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo. The Los Angeles-born shot-stopper, who trained in Argentina, recently recorded a clean sheet in a friendly against FC Cincinnati and has made several appearances during pre-season preparations.
As Inter Miami's veteran midfielders enter the final stages of their careers, De Paul's presence adds experience to the central line, potentially reinforcing the team's overall structure. Greater midfield control could, in turn, provide stability that benefits players like Ríos Novo in match situations.
