Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has acknowledged that his international future is now in doubt after FIFA handed him a 10-game suspension.
The Boca Juniors player was punished over his actions during the confrontation that followed Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.
Paredes was involved in an altercation with several Spanish players, including Eric Garcia and Gavi, during the heated scenes after the final.
Speaking about the impact of the suspension, the 32-year-old admitted that remaining with Argentina may prove difficult.
“It’s going to be difficult for me to stay with the national team,” he said.
Paredes also pointed to Lionel Messi’s decision to retire from international football as another reason his own future could change.
“Because of the suspension as well as Leo’s decision, it’s going to be difficult for everything to carry on as before.”
He revealed that he has yet to speak with Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni about the situation but expects the two to discuss it before he makes a final decision.
“I haven’t discussed it with the coach, Lionel Scaloni, yet, but we’ll talk about it and see what decision I make,” Paredes added.
Messi, 39, recently confirmed his decision to step away from Argentina duty, bringing an end to a remarkable international career in which he became the country’s leading scorer and most-capped player.
The Inter Miami forward made 207 appearances for Argentina and scored 125 goals. He also guided the country to World Cup success in Qatar in 2022.
His final appearance came against Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, where Argentina suffered a 1-0 defeat.
Paredes spoke highly of Messi’s contribution to Argentine football, praising the forward’s achievements, determination and commitment to achieving his ambitions.
According to Paredes, members of the Argentina squad had already discussed the possibility that the World Cup final could mark Messi’s final appearance for the national side.
Despite those conversations, he admitted that the players were still not emotionally ready for the departure of a figure who had been central to Argentina’s achievements for many years.
