“I felt the way I wanted to in the last few meetings.”
In the heat of the season, Rodrigo De Paul embraces the challenge of weekly derbies, especially when they pit Atlético Madrid against Real Madrid. The Argentine midfielder has grown sharper with each match, a development not missed by his own coach as they approached the Super Cup semi final, the first of three big clashes between the sides this campaign.
De Paul thrives on these high-stakes encounters. He has repeatedly spoken about the mental weight and the surge of energy that such derbies generate. They are not merely games; they are tests of character and momentum. The midfielder believes Atlético de Madrid is always up for the challenge and expects a strong performance that could steer the club toward a title in a tough, condensed schedule. His teammates and staff value the leadership he brings in important moments, and his form has become a key element in the team’s pursuit of glory.
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De Paul has shown morale and energy after playing a pivotal role in a demanding phase for Atlético. He has become the team’s compact engine, the kind of influence that helps keep the rhythm when time is short and the stakes are high. The player himself described his recent run as positive and said he feels good about contributing to the group’s progress toward success. His enthusiasm is contagious, and the locker room recognizes the value he brings in crucial moments.
“We would love to be with our people, but it is being played in Arabia.”
Speaking about the Super Cup held in Saudi Arabia, De Paul addressed the situation with a practical lens. He noted that the team always prefers to have their supporters nearby, yet the reality of the event required adapting to different conditions. The Argentinian emphasized that the squad understands what needs to be done on match day and remains excited by the prospect of competing at the highest level. He also highlighted the warmth of the Metropolitano and on the journey itself as factors that bolster the team’s morale.
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In the press room, the coach focused on the present challenge rather than past feats. The message was clear: every game is a fresh test, and the manager prefers to protect his players from the glare of previous derbies. The emphasis remained on readiness, tactical discipline, and maintaining peak condition so the squad can deliver when it matters most on the field.
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De Paul speaks with a natural clarity about his development and the team’s direction. He explained that the growth comes from consistent effort and the chance to grow into the player the club envisions. The emphasis is on progress, unity, and the joy of competing in derbies that energize the squad and fans alike. He expressed belief in the path forward, feeling mentally strong and eager to keep advancing. The passion for derby matches is a constant theme for the midfielder, who relishes every opportunity to contribute to Atlético’s ambitions.