A major architect of the Albiceleste’s world title, Rodrigo de Paul has had a difficult future since his return to Atletico Madrid.
The Argentinian world champions have had mixed fortunes since their return to the club. If some manage to ride the wave of the World Cup, others are much more struggling. Very prominent in Qatar, where he was a centerpiece in the midfield of the Albiceleste, Rodrigo de Paul has been on a dry diet since he returned to Madrid. After an extended vacation, the former Udinese player has still not played a single minute with the Colchoneros.
Substitute, Sunday, during the trip of Madrid to Almeria (1-1), the midfielder did not take off the bench despite the five changes made by Diego Simeone. And this while Angel Correa and Nahuel Molina, also crowned with Argentina, were both holders alongside Antoine Griezmann.
Caught by supporters
If he showed himself to be very to his advantage in Qatar with the Albiceleste, where he played bodyguard for Lionel Messi, Rodrigo de Paul is having a much more complicated season with Atletico Madrid, which he joined in the summer of 2021. Consequence of sluggish performances on the ground but also of a general behavior which has clearly left something to be desired for several months.
At the end of the summer, when he asked permission to stay in Argentina after the international break to settle personal problems, the former Udinese player was photographed with his girlfriend in Miami on the train to party. Sanctioned by his leaders on his return, the native of Sarandi was taken in dislike by the supporters who did not hesitate to whistle him during his big return to the Wanda Metropolitano after the Qatari World Cup. Madrid fans had it all the worse as he came back short of form after being particularly active during the coronation celebrations in Argentina.