Argentina's Unconventional Footballer: Rodrigo De Paul's Strategic Mind Games

Argentina's Rodrigo De Paul is not your typical footballer. Nicknamed 'El Motorcito' (The Little Engine), the 30-year-old midfielder has carved a unique niche for himself within the sport. While many players focus on their own performance, De Paul takes a different approach – he picks a particular nemesis in each match, making it personal. De Paul's role in the Argentina national team goes beyond his technical abilities. He is known as Lionel Messi's bodyguard due to his close proximity to the superstar and his quick-tempered reactions when opponents get physical with Messi. However, De Paul's impact extends far beyond just protecting his captain. In a recent interview with Telemundo, De Paul revealed his strategy of engaging in psychological warfare with his opponents. He stated, "What I do is pick an enemy. Well, let's say a rival because that doesn't sound so bad. I look to engage in a dispute that will keep me alert. It's not just that I want to win. I want to beat you. I make it personal." This approach was on full display in Argentina's recent matches. From confronting Australian defender Aziz Behich in the World Cup to clashing with French striker Olivier Giroud in the final, De Paul consistently seeks out adversaries on the field. While most players rely on physicality, De Paul thrives on mind games and verbal jousting to gain an edge over his opponents. De Paul's intensity and fiery temperament have not gone unnoticed. During Argentina's Copa America matches, he has continued to target specific opponents, engaging in heated exchanges and pushing the boundaries of the game. His confrontations with players like Canada's Stephen Eustaquio and Chile's Gabriel Suazo have garnered attention both on and off the pitch. Despite his combative nature on the field, De Paul maintains a sense of respect for his opponents. He acknowledges the importance of the mental and psychological aspects of the game and understands the fine line between aggression and sportsmanship. Off the pitch, he is known for his lighthearted personality and sense of humor, contrasting with his fierce competitiveness during matches. As Argentina progresses to the knockout stage of the Copa America, De Paul will undoubtedly continue his unique approach to the game. Whether he's targeting a specific opponent or fueling his adrenaline through confrontation, De Paul's unorthodox tactics have proven effective in driving his team forward. In a sport where skill and strategy reign supreme, Rodrigo De Paul stands out as a player who thrives on the personal battles within each match.