Rodrigo de Paul Honors Lionel Messi with Heartfelt Tribute Following His Goal for Inter Miami

Rodrigo De Paul, a key player for both Argentina and Inter Miami, made headlines on Saturday by scoring a stunning long-range goal during a Major League Soccer match. The pivotal moment occurred in the 31st minute when De Paul seized the ball just outside the penalty area and unleashed a powerful strike that left Monterrey goalkeeper Luis Cardenas unable to respond, despite his desperate dive to block the shot. Following his goal, De Paul paid tribute to his close friend Lionel Messi by revealing a Messi No. 10 shirt beneath his own jersey, a heartfelt gesture in light of recent family tragedy.

The tribute came shortly after the passing of Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi's father, who had been hospitalized in Rosario prior to his death. The emotional toll on Messi was evident during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he faced significant off-field challenges. De Paul, known for his close friendship with Messi, provided unwavering support during this difficult time, ensuring that Messi's legacy and spirit were honored at the club level as well.

Jorge Messi is survived by his wife and four children: Lionel, along with his older brothers Rodrigo and Matias, and younger sister Maria Sol. The family had previously addressed the media regarding Jorge's health, emphasizing the need for privacy and respect. They expressed discomfort over the speculation surrounding his condition, stating, "A person's health and the peace of mind of their loved ones should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media interest."

Jorge Messi was not only a father but also a significant influence in Lionel's life and career. A former chemical technician and steelworker, he played football in his youth, reaching the ranks of Newell's Old Boys before leaving the sport to fulfill military obligations. His role as Lionel's agent and manager was crucial, especially when he accompanied his son to Barcelona in the early 2000s for a trial that ultimately led to Lionel's place at La Masia, the renowned youth academy. Since making his professional debut in 2005, Lionel Messi has achieved remarkable success, including eight Ballon d'Or awards and leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup.