Rodrigo De Paul scored a stunning long-range goal for Inter Miami in their Leagues Cup Group A clash against Monterrey on Saturday, then lifted his jersey to reveal Lionel Messi’s iconic No. 10 shirt underneath. The gesture came just hours after the death of Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, who passed away in Rosario, Argentina, at the age of 68.

Messi was absent from the fixture, having travelled back to Argentina with his wife and children to be with his family. The rest of the Inter Miami squad wore black armbands throughout the match as a mark of respect.

How De Paul’s Goal Unfolded

As reported by ABP Live, former Manchester United midfielder Casemiro played the ball to De Paul roughly 25 yards from goal. De Paul took two short touches before driving a low, powerful effort into the bottom corner. It was clearly pre-planned. The 32-year-old Argentine midfielder had Messi’s No. 10 jersey on beneath his own, ready to reveal it if he found the net.

According to Marca, De Paul knew Inter Miami would need someone to step up in the absence of Messi, Luis Suarez, and German Berterame. He did exactly that, and added the personal tribute on top.

Jorge Messi’s Role in Lionel’s Career

ESPN reported that Inter Miami expressed publicly that their hearts were with their captain and the entire Messi family. Jorge was far more than a parent. As noted by Sportstak, he accompanied a young Lionel to Barcelona for the trial that led to his place at La Masia, and later became his son’s agent, overseeing key decisions throughout his career. Jorge was 68 at the time of his passing.

During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reports had begun circulating about Jorge’s health, and supporters noticed a visibly more emotional Messi than in previous tournaments, per Marca.

Miami Lose Despite the Tribute

The tribute was the standout moment of the night for Inter Miami. De Paul’s opener gave them the lead, but Monterrey came back to win the fixture 2-1, according to HITC. Miami now have ground to make up in the Leagues Cup group stage.

ESPN reported that Messi had left the team for a reason unrelated to sport, with the club fully supportive of their captain’s absence. He is expected to return to Miami once he has spent time with his family.

A Bond Built on and off the Pitch

De Paul and Messi have been close for years, both through the Argentina national team and at Inter Miami. Their friendship runs deep. According to Sportstak, the pair shared the pitch during Argentina’s historic 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph in Qatar. Saturday’s tribute reflected a bond that clearly extends well beyond the game itself.