Rodrigo De Paul reveals the intensive double-session physical transformation Lionel Messi is undergoing at Inter Miami to prepare for the 2026 World Cup.
At 38, most footballers are considering the comfort of the punditry studio or a slow-paced secondary league. Lionel Messi, however, is charting a different course as he prepares for what could be his final major international act. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is currently engaged in a physical transformation so rigorous it has surprised even his closest associates. Despite the collection of silverware that suggests he has nothing left to prove, Messi is working with an intensity that matches his early days at Barcelona. The motivation is simple and singular: arriving at the 2026 World Cup in the best physical condition of his storied career.
The details of this intensive regime were recently brought to light by his Argentina and Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul. Known for his jovial nature, De Paul struck a more serious tone when discussing the sacrifices the captain is making behind the scenes. According to the midfielder, the pair have implemented a grueling "double shift" into their daily schedules for the past several months. This specialized fitness plan goes well beyond their standard commitments to Inter Miami, involving extra hours of strength and conditioning work designed to ensure their bodies can withstand the high-intensity demands of a summer tournament.
The Science Behind the Double-Session Grind
This specialized routine is not just about logging hours; it is a calculated effort to maintain peak performance in the twilight of an elite career. De Paul revealed that they have enlisted a dedicated personal trainer who oversees these extra sessions, pushing them to their physical limits. For Messi, the focus is on maintaining his explosive first step and ensuring his recovery times between matches remain optimal. The double training sessions are a testament to a level of professionalism that has allowed him to remain at the pinnacle of the game for two decades. It is a level of commitment that sends a clear message to his teammates and rivals alike.
The results of this hard work are already visible on the pitch in MLS. Messi has been in blistering form for Inter Miami during the 2026 season, contributing eleven goals and four assists in just twelve appearances. His most recent performance against Cincinnati was a masterclass in efficiency, as he netted a brace to secure a vital 5-3 victory. This output is not a coincidence; it is the direct result of the metabolic and muscular conditioning he is undergoing away from the spotlight. By building a massive physical reserve now, Messi is betting that he can maintain this level of performance when the stakes are at their highest in the summer.
De Paul on the Mental Toll of Elite Football
While the physical aspect of their preparation is paramount, De Paul also opened up about the emotional fluctuations that come with being a high-profile athlete. In a candid moment during an interview with Lo del Pollo, the midfielder admitted to experiencing significant "low moments." Despite his public persona often being defined by high energy and TikTok dances with his daughter, De Paul described himself as a person of extremes. He confessed that when his mood drops, it drops significantly, rejecting the idea of being a "lukewarm" individual. This vulnerability offers a rare glimpse into the psychological pressure that accompanies the defense of a World Cup title.
These mental struggles highlight the importance of the bond between the players. The shared training sessions serve as more than just physical preparation; they are a support system for two men navigating the immense expectations of a nation. De Paul’s admission of his ups and downs underscores the human element of a squad that often seems invincible on the pitch. It is this combination of physical resilience and emotional honesty that has defined the current Argentina era under Lionel Scaloni, creating a culture where players are encouraged to be their authentic selves while maintaining elite standards.
The Road to Group J and the Quest for a Fourth Star
Argentina's path to defending their crown will begin in Group J, where they will face Algeria, Austria, and Jordan. On paper, the Albiceleste are the heavy favorites, but the tournament format and the varying styles of their opponents will require a versatile and physically robust squad. Before the competitive action kicks off, Scaloni has scheduled two friendlies against Honduras and Iceland. These matches will serve as the final testing ground for the tactical tweaks and physical conditions that Messi and De Paul have been perfecting in Miami. The goal is to arrive at the opening whistle with zero doubts about their readiness.
For the defending champions, the preparation is about more than just maintaining status; it is about evolution. The integration of younger talents alongside veteran leaders like Messi requires a delicate balance. The captain's willingness to "kill himself" in training, as De Paul put his, sets a standard that no younger player can ignore. If the greatest player in history is still doing double sessions to stay sharp, the rest of the squad has no choice but to follow suit. This cultural ripple effect is perhaps the most significant outcome of Messi's current regime.
A Tournament on Home Soil for the Miami Stars
The 2026 World Cup, spread across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, offers a unique advantage for the Inter Miami contingent. Messi has already adapted to the climate and travel demands of North America, a factor that could prove decisive during the grueling tournament schedule. His familiarity with the venues and the local support will provide a level of comfort that other international stars may lack. This logistical advantage, coupled with his peak physical condition, makes the prospect of an Argentine repeat very real. The focus remains entirely on the process, one grueling session at a time.
As the countdown to the opening match continues, the narrative surrounding Messi has shifted from a discussion of his retirement to an appreciation of his longevity. The work he is doing now with De Paul is a clear indication that he is not going to the World Cup as a passenger or a ceremonial figurehead. He is going there to lead, to compete, and to win. The "mentality monsters" of the Argentine squad are being forged in the heat of Miami, and when the tournament kicks off, they intend to be the most physically prepared team on the planet.
Follow the full journey of the defending champions and every update on Messi's fitness with more football news on MATCHLINE.
