Paredes hints at international exit after ban and Messi retirement
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has cast doubt on his future with the national team following a 10-match suspension from FIFA. The ban stems from his involvement in a post-match altercation during the World Cup final loss to Spain. Paredes also cited Lionel Messi's recent retirement from international duty as a factor in his uncertainty, though he has yet to discuss the matter with coach Lionel Scaloni.
Paredes, 32, currently plays club football for Boca Juniors in Argentina. His suspension stems from an incident at the end of the World Cup final defeat to Spain, where he confronted Eric Garcia and Gavi in a physical altercation that drew widespread attention. The ban was formally announced in late August.
The midfielder acknowledged that Messi's departure from international football has added to his uncertainty. Messi retired at 39, having scored 125 goals across 207 caps for Argentina, leading the team to World Cup victory in 2022 before falling to Spain in his final appearance. Paredes noted that while the team anticipated the final might be Messi's last match, they were still unprepared for his exit. He has not yet spoken with coach Lionel Scaloni about his future.
Paredes' potential exit could signal a broader transition period for Argentina's national team, which is already adjusting to life without Messi. His departure may accelerate the squad's generational shift, affecting team chemistry and leadership on the pitch. Fans and younger players who looked to experienced figures like Paredes for continuity may feel the loss acutely, while the suspension itself could influence how FIFA's disciplinary actions shape player conduct in high-stakes international matches going forward.