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The player expressed his pride in his country
Argentina midfielder Rodrigo de Paul has dropped a bombshell on Instagram just 24 hours after losing to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, where he launched a scathing attack on his country’s critics and accused them of spreading “baseless conspiracy theories” throughout the tournament.
De Paul, 32, who started the final after coming on as a substitute in the semi-finals, wrote: “Today I see how many people have been waiting for this downfall, spreading baseless conspiracy theories during the World Cup to ease the pain of others for not being able to experience what all Argentines experienced;
“But it only proved that passion and love for our shirt can overcome anything,” in a clear reference to much of the international press and former players from other teams who accused the Albiceleste of being referee favourites, as well as criticizing their playing style and tone.
Despite his harsh tone towards critics, “The Little Engine” expressed his deep sadness at Argentina’s inability to retain the title, saying: “The biggest pain is our inability to bring the World Cup back to our country, because if there’s anyone who deserves to experience this feeling again, it’s you.
De Paul accompanied his emotional message with three photos, one of him holding the runner-up medal from behind and looking out into the stands packed with Argentine fans, the second of the team celebrating their quarter-final berth at the Kansas City Stadium, and the third of Lionel Scaloni embracing after one of the team’s 19 goals.
The 94-year-old, one of the most famous pillars of the golden Scaloni era, which could end next December 31, according to the coach’s own statements, concluded:
De Paul is considered a key player in the most successful era in tango history, having won the Copa America in 2021 and 2024 and the World Cup in 2022, and after his first major disappointment in the Albiceleste shirt, he will be one of the leaders of a new generation that will not include Nicolas Otamendi and Lionel.
