Who is Rodrigo De Paul?
Rodrigo De Paul is an Argentine professional footballer known for his elite ball control, energy, playmaking, and relentless box-to-box style. A key midfielder for Atlético Madrid and a crucial pillar of the Argentina National Team, De Paul played an instrumental role in Argentina winning the Copa América 2021 and the FIFA World Cup 2022. His combination of technique, work rate, creativity, and leadership makes him one of the most complete midfielders in modern football.
Quick Profile
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Full Name: Rodrigo Javier De Paul
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Born: May 24, 1994
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Birthplace: Sarandí, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Height: 5’11’’ (180 cm)
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Position: Central Midfielder / Box-to-Box Midfielder
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Nationality: Argentine
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Current Club: Atlético Madrid
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National Team: Argentina
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Jersey Number: 5 (Argentina), 5 (Atlético)
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Net Worth: Estimated $10–15 Million
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Relationship Status: Dating Argentine singer Tini Stoessel (on-and-off public relationship)
Early Life & Background
Rodrigo De Paul grew up in Sarandí, Buenos Aires, where he developed deep passion for football from childhood. Raised in a football-loving family, he joined local youth clubs before earning a chance at one of Argentina’s top academies.
Youth Career
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Joined Racing Club’s youth system
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Known for technique, vision, and drive at a young age
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Rapidly progressed through the academy
His natural talent made him one of the brightest Argentine prospects.
Professional Debut: Racing Club
De Paul made his professional debut for Racing Club in 2012 at age 18.
Racing Highlights
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Key playmaker in midfield
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Impressive dribbling and creativity
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Strong domestic league performances
His rise in Argentina earned attention from European clubs.
Move to Europe: Valencia CF
In 2014, Rodrigo De Paul signed with Valencia CF in La Liga.
Valencia Experience
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Showed flashes of brilliance
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Faced inconsistent playing time
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Gained valuable European experience
After two seasons and loan spells, he sought a club where he could grow into a leader.
Transformation at Udinese
The turning point in De Paul’s career came in Udinese (Serie A).
Why Udinese Changed Everything
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Became a complete midfielder
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Improved physicality and tactical intelligence
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Became team captain
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Consistently delivered goals, assists, and elite performances
He developed into one of Serie A’s best all-around midfielders, attracting Europe’s top clubs.
Atlético Madrid: Becoming a World-Class Midfielder
De Paul joined Atlético Madrid in 2021 under Diego Simeone.
Impact at Atlético
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Perfect fit for Simeone’s high-intensity system
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Improved defensive work rate
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Maintained strong passing and transition play
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Became a key starter in midfield
His versatility allows him to play as:
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Central midfielder
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Right-sided box-to-box midfielder
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Deep-lying playmaker
Argentina National Team: Copa América & World Cup Hero
Rodrigo De Paul is one of the most important midfielders for Argentina’s modern golden era.
Copa América 2021
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Delivered crucial assist to Ángel Di María in the final
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Dominated midfield battles
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Played every match with relentless intensity
FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022
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Key starter for every match
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Provided defensive support for Messi
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Maintained passing rhythm and tempo
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Praised for leadership and stamina
Fans often credit him as Messi’s bodyguard for protecting the captain both on and off the pitch.
Playing Style
Rodrigo De Paul is widely regarded as one of football’s best box-to-box midfielders.
Strengths
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Elite passing range
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Strong ball progression
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Aggressive pressing
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High stamina and work rate
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Creative playmaking
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Tactical versatility
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Defensive intensity
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Leadership and composure
He is equally effective in defense and attack, making him a complete modern midfielder.
Career Stats (Approx.)
(Update seasonally as needed.)
Club Career
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Goals: 35+
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Assists: 40+
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Appearances: 350+
Argentina National Team
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Caps: 60+
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Goals: 3+
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Major Titles: Copa América 2021, Finalissima 2022, World Cup 2022
Contract & Salary
De Paul signed a long-term contract with Atlético Madrid.
Contract Details
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Multi-year deal (through 2026)
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Estimated salary: €3–4 million per year
His value has significantly increased after international success.
Net Worth
Rodrigo De Paul’s estimated net worth is $10–15 million, based on:
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Club salary
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Bonuses & performance incentives
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Endorsements (Adidas, lifestyle brands)
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International appearances
His market value remains high due to his global recognition.
Personal Life
Rodrigo De Paul has gained huge global attention for both his playing career and public personality.
Relationship
He has been in an on-and-off relationship with Tini Stoessel, one of Argentina’s biggest pop stars.
Family
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Two children from a previous relationship with Camila Homs
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Maintains strong ties with his family in Argentina
Lifestyle
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Passionate about fitness and fashion
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Known for tattoos and expressive style
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Strong bond with Argentine teammates
Achievements
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FIFA World Cup Champion (2022)
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Copa América Champion (2021)
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Finalissima Champion (2022)
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Transformed into a world-class midfielder
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Key figure in Argentina’s golden generation
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Fan favorite for intensity and passion
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Rodrigo De Paul?
Born May 24, 1994.
How tall is he?
5’11’’ (180 cm).
Which club does De Paul play for?
Atlético Madrid.
Which position does he play?
Central midfielder / box-to-box.
Is Rodrigo De Paul dating Tini Stoessel?
They have been in an on-and-off public relationship.
What is De Paul’s net worth?
Estimated $10–15 million.
What is De Paul known for?
Elite ball control, stamina, passing, leadership, and his crucial role in Argentina’s World Cup win.
Conclusion
Rodrigo De Paul’s journey from Sarandí to global superstar reflects dedication, talent, and relentless drive. As a key figure for both Atlético Madrid and Argentina’s World Cup-winning team, De Paul continues to be one of football’s most complete and admired midfielders. His passion, leadership, and consistent performances cement him as a modern football icon.
