Rodrigo de Paul has emerged as the cornerstone of Argentina’s squad dynamics, a figure who mirrors the role of former Barcelona teammates in fostering Messi’s seamless integration into the team’s rhythm.
Their connection solidified during international duty, building from an initial encounter when De Paul, then at Valencia, requested a post-match photo with Messi after a Barcelona game—a moment he later celebrated on social media.
A defining moment arose when De Paul observed Messi leaving training alone, subdued. After waiting, he knocked on his door and offered, “Fancy a mate and a game of truco?”—a gesture that ignited a bond governed by mutual respect and tradition.
The ritual that followed became central to their camaraderie: daily mornings sharing mate in De Paul’s room, with Messi arriving first, followed by teammates in strict order. Any early risers risked disciplinary banter, reinforcing the unspoken rules of their routine.
Though De Paul dubs him “El Pequeno”—the diminutive—he is, in fact, the elder of the pair, a familial term underscoring their ease with one another.
On the field, Messi strides forward at the forefront, De Paul anchoring his flank, the squad fanning out behind in a protective formation, akin to a vigilant street clan safeguarding its leader.
For many teammates, Messi transcended teammate status, embodying a childhood idol whose televised exploits inspired their own footballing journeys.
Unity extends beyond spirit: the squad adopts identical Adidas Adistar Messi boots, and for his June birthday, they wore jerseys adorned with a photo of the group alongside Leo, a tribute capturing his legacy across national team campaigns.