Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul dropped a bombshell on his Instagram account, just 24 hours after losing the 2026 World Cup final to Spain, launching a scathing attack on critics of his country and accusing them of spreading "baseless conspiracy theories" throughout the tournament.

De Paul, 32, who started the final after being a substitute in the semifinal, wrote in a fiery statement: "Today I see how many people were expecting this fall, spreading baseless conspiracy theories throughout the World Cup to ease the pain of others for not being able to experience what all Argentines were experiencing; because our smiles bother them, because our ways annoy them."

Lionel Messi's teammate at Inter Miami added: "But this only confirmed that the passion and love for our shirt can overcome anything," in a clear reference to a large part of the international press and former players from other national teams, who accused La Albiceleste throughout the World Cup of receiving referee favoritism, as well as criticizing their style of play and manner of celebrations.

Despite the harshness of his tone towards critics, "El Motorcito" (The Little Engine) expressed his deep sorrow that Argentina could not retain the title, saying: "The greatest pain is our inability to bring the World Cup back to our country; because if there was anyone who deserved to experience that feeling again, it is you, but as the hours pass, you realize that your connection to this team goes beyond just the cup."

De Paul accompanied his emotional message with three photos: the first of him from behind wearing the runner-up medal and looking at the stands packed with Argentine fans, the second of the team celebrating qualification for the quarterfinals at Kansas City stadium, and the third of players hugging after one of the 19 goals scored by Lionel Scaloni's team in the tournament.

The player with 94 international caps, one of the key pillars of Scaloni's golden era which may end on December 31 according to the coach's own statements, concluded: "The pain will remain present for a long time, but today I am prouder than ever to be Argentine."

De Paul is a key player in the most successful era in Tango history, having won the Copa América in 2021 and 2024, and the World Cup in 2022. After his first major disappointment with the Albiceleste jersey, he will be one of the leaders of a new generation that will not include Nicolás Otamendi, and theoretically, Lionel Messi as well.