“It’s Nonsense” – Rodrigo De Paul Reacts to Manuel Ugarte’s NSFW Gesture Involving Lionel Messi After Argentina’s Loss

Argentina and Uruguay locked horns in a heated encounter last night. While fans touted La Albiceleste as the favorites to win the game, Uruguay stunned the World champions by bagging a 2-0 win. However, despite their triumph, the dispute between Rodrigo De Paul and Manuel Ugarte took all the headlines. Things got so heated that even Lionel Messi seemed to have lost his calm following the game. However, it seems like De Paul does not have the same opinion as his captain.

De Paul denied claims of disrespect from Ugarte in a recent interview. The player stated things happen during the game, and it is imperative to not dwell on what’s already passed. Ugarte and De Paul butted heads just twenty-one minutes into the game, with the Uruguayan star having a rude choice of words for the Argentinian.

Rodrigo De Paul opens up on dispute with Manuel Ugarte

Things took a nasty turn between Argentina and Uruguay in their latest encounter. Players from both sides roughed each other up throughout the game, with De Paul and Ugarte’s tussle gathering unwanted attention. Messi’s foul added salt to the wounds as La Pulga avoided getting sent off for grabbing Mathias Olivera, which frustrated the Uruguayan players. 

Regardless, De Paul downplayed all actions during the game. In a recent interview, the player touched down on the actions from the game, claiming things happen in the heat of the moment.

De Paul stated, “Was there disrespect for gestures? It’s nonsense to talk about it now. That stays on the pitch. This is football. Uruguay did better tonight and now we have to get up and play a great game in Brazil. Uruguay did very well. Sometimes it’s also time to lose. The important thing is what happens from now on.”

However, unlike De Paul, not everyone seemed to be as forgiving. La Pulga addressed the Uruguayan during his post-game interview claiming young players need to learn about respect.

READ MORE: ‘There’s No Debate Left’: Lionel Scaloni Slams Haters for Doubting Lionel Messi’s 8th Ballon d’Or Triumph

Lionel Messi tears into Manuel Ugarte following his actions

La Pulga was less than impressed with Ugarte during the game between Argentina and Uruguay. The Inter Miami star boldly voiced his opinion, tearing into the Uruguayan after the game.

Talking to the reporters, Messi stated, “It’s normal. These kinds of games, qualifiers, against Uruguay, it’s always like that. I prefer not to say what I think. Young people have to learn to respect from their elders. This classic was always intense, hard, but always with a lot of respect. They have to learn a little.”

Uruguay emerged victorious in the heated encounter thanks to two vital goals from Darwin Nunez and Ronald Araujo. Despite the loss, the Albiceleste are still at the top of the COLEMBOL Qualifiers standings. The team will be eager to bounce back and get things back on track as the side faces Brazil in their upcoming encounter.

WATCH THIS STORY: Ten Times Cristiano Ronaldo Scored Four Goals in a Game