Leandro Paredes Weighs Argentina Future Following 10-Match FIFA Ban

Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has cast doubt over his international future, acknowledging that continuing to play for his country will be difficult following a 10-match suspension imposed by FIFA and the international retirement of long-time captain Lionel Messi.

The 32-year-old midfielder, who plays his club football in Argentina for Boca Juniors, received the 10-game ban from world football’s governing body after taking part in an on-pitch altercation at full-time of the 2026 World Cup final. Argentina suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the championship match, which was immediately followed by a brawl between players from both national sides.

During the post-match confrontation, Paredes grabbed Spanish defender Eric Garcia by the throat and wrestled midfielder Gavi to the ground. Footage from the incident also showed Paredes appearing to strike Gavi in the face during the physical clash between the two teams.

Following the sanction, Paredes stated that the severe penalty, combined with Messi’s decision to step down from international duty, makes it uncertain whether he will remain involved with the national team. He noted that “it’s going to be difficult for me to stay with the national team” and explained that the suspension and Messi’s departure mean “it’s going to be difficult for everything to carry on as before.”

Paredes confirmed that he has not yet held formal conversations with Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni regarding his international standing. However, he indicated that he plans to speak with the manager before reaching a final decision about his future with the national side.

The midfielder also reflected on the broader impact of Messi’s international retirement on the Argentinian squad. Messi, 39, recently announced the end of his international career, stating that he had “nothing left to give” after having “given it my all” throughout his time with the national team.

Paredes revealed that members of the squad had discussed the possibility of the 2026 World Cup final being Messi’s last match during the closing days of the tournament. Despite those conversations, Paredes expressed that the players were emotionally unprepared for his departure because of what the former captain represents to the team. Paredes added that Messi’s legacy would endure indefinitely due to his achievements, his resilience, and his demonstration of how hard-won dreams can ultimately be fulfilled.

Background

Lionel Messi ended his international career as Argentina’s all-time top scorer and most-capped player, having recorded 125 goals in 207 appearances. The forward led Argentina to a World Cup victory in Qatar in 2022 before finishing his international career in the 2026 final against Spain.