Argentinian midfielder Rodrigo De Paul recently revealed that he was urged by Lionel Messi not to risk his health during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar....CONTINUE READING THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
Atlético Madrid’s midfielder has been a run-of-the-mill midfield figure at La Albiceleste, but he admitted he was injured in the quarter-finals against the Netherlands, with Lionel Scaloni’s side out after extra time. After his 2-2 finish, he won the match on penalties.
De Paul said he was in doubt in the round of 16 against Croatia. Atleti man said (h/t El Universal):
“Yes, I was injured, Two days before the game. I felt something behind me and yes, I had hurt myself. I didn’t break, I had a strain, which is like a grade 1. It was on the last play of training.
I never I hadn’t injured or broken any muscle. When the play was over, the coach came up to me and asked me what happened to me.”
Paul claimed Messi showed his leadership skills by urging him not to risk injury. He said:
“[Messi told De Paul] ‘Rodri, don’t play stupid, I promise I’ll take you to the semifinal. Don’t risk it, you’ll most likely be left out.”
Argentina won the duel against Croatia 3-0. Julian Alvarez scored his two goals and Messi scored from the penalty spot to secure Albiceleste’s place in the final.
The Paris Saint-Germain striker maintained his best form throughout the competition as his confident appearance led his Albiceleste to victory. He scored 7 goals and provided 3 assists for which he was awarded the Golden Ball award.
