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Rodrigo De Paul has strongly defended Argentina in the wake of their World Cup final loss to Spain, condemning critics for circulating what he called “groundless conspiracy theories” during the tournament. The midfielder maintained that the backlash only deepened the unity within Lionel Scaloni’s squad despite the heartbreak of defeat.

De Paul, a key figure in Argentina’s midfield, came out in support of his teammates after their World Cup run ended with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Spain in the final. Lionel Scaloni’s men were denied the chance to become the first team in 64 years to retain the trophy, falling short in extra time at MetLife Stadium despite a spirited comeback to reach the final.

In the aftermath, much of the discussion has centred not just on the result but also on Argentina’s conduct, with critics highlighting issues of gamesmanship and discipline during the tense final encounter.

Addressing the criticism, De Paul took to Instagram to respond to rival fans who, he claimed, had been waiting for Argentina to stumble. He expressed his sadness at missing out on another World Cup victory, saying that the hardest part was being unable to deliver the trophy once again to the passionate supporters back home.

He wrote: “The greatest pain is that we couldn’t bring the World Cup back to our country again, because if anyone deserved to relive that feeling, it was you. But as time passes, it becomes clear that the bond people have with this group goes beyond the trophy, and that’s something I hold on to as I process this moment.

“Today, I see how many people were waiting for us to fall, spreading groundless conspiracy theories throughout the World Cup just to ease their own frustration at not being able to experience what we Argentines were going through – because our smiles annoy them, because our way of being gets under their skin.”

De Paul also suggested that the wave of criticism only served to reinforce the team’s sense of togetherness during the tournament.

“But all of that only confirmed that passion and love for our jersey can overcome anything,” he added. “The pain will last for a long time, but today more than ever, I am proud to be ARGENTINE.”

Argentina’s World Cup campaign continues to draw scrutiny following the fiery ending to the final against Spain. Leandro Paredes was shown a red card after the final whistle, following Enzo Fernandez’s earlier sending-off. With reports suggesting possible FIFA sanctions, questions over the Albiceleste’s behaviour are likely to persist even after their impressive run to the final.