Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has admitted that his future with the national team is uncertain following a 10-match suspension imposed by FIFA.
Paredes was handed the ban for his role in a confrontation with Spain players after Argentina’s 1-0 defeat in the 2026 World Cup final.
The 32-year-old grabbed Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat and wrestled Gavi to the ground before appearing to strike the midfielder in the face.
Paredes, who plays for Boca Juniors, said the suspension has made it difficult for him to see his international career continuing as before.
As reported by BBC Sport on Wednesday, the Argentine was quoted as saying, “It’s going to be difficult for me to stay with the national team,” he said.
The midfielder also cited Lionel Messi’s retirement from international football as another factor that could influence his decision.
A cleaner version of the quote is:
“Because of the suspension as well as Leo’s decision, it’s going to be difficult for everything to carry on as before.”
“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 announced his retirement from Argentina duty, saying he had “nothing left to give” after giving everything for his country.
The legendary forward captained Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022, but could not lead the team to another title in what became his final international appearance against Spain.
Messi leaves the national team as Argentina’s record goalscorer and most-capped player, having scored 125 goals in 207 appearances.
Paredes paid tribute to Messi, saying his legacy would live on because of his achievements, perseverance and determination to fulfil his dreams.
The midfielder said Argentina’s players had discussed during the final days of the World Cup that the match was likely to be Messi’s last for the national team.
However, he admitted that the squad was still not prepared for the reality of losing the player who has played such a significant role in Argentina’s success.
