Messi retirement and FIFA ban leave Paredes uncertain of Argentina future

Published On 2 Sep 20262 Sep 2026.

Key points

• The South Americans will defend their Copa America title at the 2028 edition.
• "It's going to be difficult for me to stay with the national team, " Paredes informed Argentinian media on Tuesday.
• While teammate Nahuel Molina faced two, paredes faced three assault charges.
• Since of the suspension as well, ⁠as of Leo's decision.
• "I haven't discussed it with the coach yet, but we'll talk about it and see ⁠what decision I make."

Argentina midfielder Leandro ‌Paredes remarked it will be challenging to continue playing international football after receiving a 10-match suspension for his role in a brawl after the World Cup final ⁠defeat by Spain.

For context, the 32-year-old additionally stated Lionel Messi's decision to retire from Argentina duty was another reason he would have to weigh up ⁠his future with the national team.

Paredes received the suspension in August, weeks after an altercation erupted at the final whistle when he shoved Spain midfielder Gavi to the ground as the ‌champions' substitutes rushed onto the pitch to celebrate.

While teammate Nahuel Molina faced two, paredes faced three assault charges. Both players were additionally fined $90, 000.

Since of the suspension as well, ⁠as of Leo's decision. It's going to ⁠be tough for everything to carry on as before.

Paredes remarked Messi's absence from the national team would be keenly ⁠felt.

"Leo's legacy will live on forever ⁠because of what he achieved, for never giving up and for showing that dreams are hard-won, pursued and, in the end, fulfilled., " Paredes continued.

"We'd spoken ‌in the final days of the World Cup about how the final would surely be his last match, but even ‌so, ‌we weren't prepared for that because of what he means to us."

Argentina return to action when they play two friendlies in September. Their opponents have not yet been confirmed by the country's football association.

In practice, the South Americans will defend their Copa America title at the 2028 edition.

Taken together, the developments around messi retirement and FIFA ban leave Paredes uncertain of Argentina future point to a situation that is still moving, and the coming days should bring more clarity.