Messi still has a long way to go.
De Paul, dubbed "Messi's bodyguard," has confirmed that the 39-year-old star will continue playing for the Argentine national team after the 2026 World Cup .
"Messi is enjoying football every day. We should cherish every moment of Messi's career instead of counting down his matches," De Paul emphasized in a press conference ahead of Argentina's match against Cabo Verde at 5 am on July 4th in the round of 32.
Messi during a training session at Inter Miami's home stadium before Argentina's match against Cabo Verde.
Photo: Reuters
"For me, the most important thing is to enjoy Messi's presence every day, just like every other Argentinian citizen. Of course, we always appreciate those things more than what we no longer have. It's part of life. But we're all enjoying having him around," De Paul added.
Messi is participating in his sixth World Cup and is tied with Mbappe (France) for the top scorer spot with 6 goals each, including a hat-trick in the opening group stage match against Algeria. Messi and De Paul currently play together for Inter Miami.
De Paul also revealed: "Being good friends with Messi means a lot to me. Friendship is one of the most important things we all have. I consider myself a very lucky person. To be alongside Messi, sharing moments on and off the pitch. And that makes me really proud."
Cabo Verde is a formidable opponent.
De Paul admitted he was surprised that Argentina were drawn against Cabo Verde in the round of 32, as the team's prior plan, including Messi's, was to face European champions Spain or Uruguay.
Messi delivered a message of victory for the Argentine team and highlighted the spirit of solidarity with his teammates after the group stage matches.
Photo: Reuters
"When the draw was announced, we realized we might be facing a former World Cup champion, national teams with top players competing in major leagues. But in the end it was Cabo Verde," De Paul shared. However, he also cautioned against underestimating any African opponent, a view shared by coach Scaloni.
Coach Scaloni said: "We are facing a team that played very well in the group stage, they played very well against their opponents. I think we need to be very responsible in tomorrow's match (July 4), because it is a very important match for us."
Coach Scaloni also stated that he has not yet decided on the official starting lineup for the Argentina team against Cabo Verde, but confirmed that he has all his best players available.
Meanwhile, Cabo Verde coach Bubista affirmed that the match against Messi and the Argentine team is "the most important match of our lives." He also emphasized: "We have no other thought than to try to overcome Messi and the Argentine team to continue our fairytale journey at the 2026 World Cup."