Rodrigo De Paul: The Argentine Football Player
Introduction
Rodrigo Javier De Paul is one of Argentina’s most talented footballers today. Born on May 24, 1994, in Sarandí, a town in Greater Buenos Aires, he distinguished himself as a versatile midfielder known for his creativity, tireless energy, and leadership on the pitch. His career, De Paul played for major clubs in Europe and South America, becoming a key player for the Argentine national team, contributing to victories in top-level international competitions. In 2025, at the age of 31, he took a new direction with a move to Inter Miami in the United States, where he plays alongside compatriots such as Lionel Messi. This move marked an exciting phase in his professional life, combining European experience with the challenge of a rising league. In this article, we explore his journey from his early days in football to his most recent moments, highlighting aspects of his career, playing style, and personal life.
De Paul has always demonstrated a passion for the sport that extends beyond the pitch. His ability to create plays, deliver precise passes, and win back the ball has made him a complete player, admired by fans and coaches alike. With over 400 professional appearances and participation in world tournaments, he embodies the resilient spirit of Argentine football. Let’s delve into the details of his story.
Early Life
Rodrigo De Paul grew up in a humble environment in Sarandí, an urban area near the Argentine capital. His parents separated when he was a child, and he was raised primarily by his mother, Mónica Ferrarotti, who played a crucial role in his development. Monica worked hard to support her son’s dreams, encouraging him to pursue soccer from an early age. De Paul has two older brothers, who were also part of his family support network, sharing leisure time and daily challenges.
From a young age, Rodrigo demonstrated a talent for sports. At the age of eight, in 2002, he joined the youth academy of Racing Club, one of Argentina’s most traditional clubs. There, he spent years honing his skills, playing in lower leagues and dreaming of a professional career. His dedication was evident: he trained diligently, balancing studies with soccer. Sarandí, with its bustling streets and makeshift pitches, shaped his competitive nature. De Paul often mentions in interviews how his humble roots motivated him to overcome obstacles, transforming adversity into fuel for success.
This early phase was marked by local influences. He admired Argentine players like Juan Román Riquelme and Lionel Messi, who served as inspiration. At 18, already integrated into Racing’s first team, De Paul began to envision a promising future. His family, especially his mother, closely followed his every step, celebrating small victories and offering support during difficult times. This family foundation remains a constant in his life, even with his international fame.
Club Career
Paul’s career at the club level reflects a constant evolution, encompassing challenges in Argentina, adaptations in Europe, and, most recently, an adventure in the United States. He has accumulated experience in different leagues, adapting to varying playing styles.
Racing Club (2012–2014)
De Paul made his professional debut for Racing Club on February 10, 2013, in a 3-0 defeat against Atlético de Rafaela. Coming on as a replacement for Mauro Camoranesi, he showed flashes of talent despite the negative result. His first goal came on March 10, 2013, in a 3-0 victory over San Martín de San Juan. In the 2012–13 season, he played 19 matches and scored two goals. The following year, 2013–14, he increased his appearances to 35 appearances, scoring four goals.
At Racing, De Paul learned the fundamentals of Argentine football: intensity, grit, and technique. He stood out for his vision and ability to dribble past opponents. These early years were formative, preparing him for the international leap. In total, he made 54 appearances and scored six goals for the Avellaneda club.
Valencia (2014–2016)
In May 2014, De Paul signed a five-year contract with Spanish club Valencia for approximately $6.5 million. His La Liga debut came on August 23, 2014, in a 1-1 draw against Sevilla, but he was sent off shortly after coming on. His first goal for the club came on December 4, 2014, in the Copa del Rey against Rayo Vallecano. In La Liga, he scored for the first time on April 9, 2015, against Athletic Bilbao.
In the 2014–15 season, he played 29 times and scored two goals. In 2015–16, he played 15 games without scoring before being loaned back to Racing. In total, he played 34 La Liga games with Valencia, scoring one goal. This stint was challenging, with cultural and tactical adjustments, but it helped him mature as a player.
Return to Racing (Loan, 2016)
In February 2016, De Paul returned to Racing on loan. He played 11 league games without scoring, but scored once in three Copa Libertadores appearances. In total, he played 15 games and scored one goal. This return helped him regain confidence after an inconsistent period in Spain.
Udinese (2016–2021)
In July 2016, De Paul transferred to Udinese in Italy. His debut was on August 20, 2016, in a 4-0 loss to Roma. His first goal came on January 29, 2017, against Milan. The 2018–19 season was a highlight: he scored nine goals and nine assists, making him the team’s top scorer.
In December 2020, he took over the captaincy. Over five seasons, he made 177 Serie A appearances, scoring 33 goals, and seven cup appearances, scoring one goal, for a total of 184 appearances and 34 goals. At Udinese, De Paul established himself as a creative midfielder, earning European recognition.
Atlético de Madrid (2021–2025)
In July 2021, shortly after the Copa América, De Paul signed with Atlético Madrid on a five-year contract. His first goal came on December 7, 2021, in the Champions League against Porto. He played 134 La Liga matches, scoring 11 goals, 16 in cup competitions, scoring 32 in the Champions League, scoring three goals, and five in other competitions. Total: 187 matches, scoring 14 goals.
Under Diego Simeone, De Paul adapted to the defensive and intense style, contributing to solid campaigns. He became a key player, blending offensive skill with defensive work.
Inter Miami (2025–Present)
On July 25, 2025, De Paul was loaned to Inter Miami for six months, with a mandatory buyout clause for €15 million. He signed a four-year contract until 2029. His first goal came on August 6, 2025, in the Leagues Cup against Pumas. To date, he has scored one goal in three games.
The move to the US reunited him with Messi, and De Paul expressed excitement about the challenge, with no regrets. He highlighted the opportunity to play in a growing league, preparing for future competitions.
International Career
De Paul made his international debut on October 11, 2018, in a 4-0 victory over Iraq. Under Lionel Scaloni, he became a regular starter. In 2019, he helped Argentina finish third in the Copa América. His first international goal came on July 3, 2021, against Ecuador in the Copa América, where he provided the decisive assist in the final against Brazil, which they won 1-0.
He was part of the winning squads of the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 World Cup, and the 2024 Copa América. As of June 2025, he has played 78 games and scored two goals. De Paul is known for protecting Messi and creating plays, being vital to Argentina’s recent successes.
Playing Style
De Paul is a complete midfielder: right-footed, 6’2″, and skilled with his feet. His vision allows for long passes and precise dribbling. Defensively, he wins the ball back with energy. He plays as a center-back or winger, adapting to a variety of tactics. His leadership and charisma make him a natural captain.
Personal Life
De Paul values family. Raised by his mother, Monica, he maintains strong bonds with her and his siblings. He was married to Camila Homs, with whom he has two children: Francesca and Bautista. Despite their separation, he actively participates in the children’s lives.
Since 2021, he’s been dating Argentine singer Tini Stoessel. They’ve appeared together at events, such as the 2022 World Cup. De Paul shares family moments on social media, showing a loving side beyond the field.
Achievements
De Paul won the 2021 and 2024 Copa América, the 2022 World Cup, and the CONMEBOL-UEFA Champions League. He contributed to club successes, but never won major titles with Atlético. His international medals immortalize him in Argentine history.
Conclusion
Rodrigo De Paul exemplifies determination and talent. From Sarandí to Inter Miami, his journey inspires. At 31, he continues to evolve, promising more exciting chapters. His legacy in Argentine football is undeniable, marked by victories and dedication.
