Leandro Paredes, 32, received a 10-match suspension from FIFA for his involvement in a brawl at the final whistle of the 2026 World Cup final, where Argentina lost to Spain [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. The incident saw Paredes shove Spain midfielder Gavi to the ground and grab Eric Garcia by the throat, triggering sanctions against him and teammate Nahuel Molina, both fined $90,000 and facing multiple assault charges [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].
On September 1, 2026, Paredes spoke publicly about his uncertain future with the national team. "It's going to be difficult for me to stay with the national team. Because of the suspension as well, because of Leo's decision ... It's going to be difficult for everything to carry on as before," he said, referring to Lionel Messi’s recent decision to retire from international football after the Cup final [1, 4, 5, 6]. Messi, Argentina’s all-time leading scorer with 125 goals in 207 appearances, said he had "nothing left to give" internationally [2, 6].
Paredes praised Messi’s career, calling his legacy one that "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" [1]. He added, "He made a decision we didn't want to see happen. We had talked about this a lot with him. He was open with us during the final days of the World Cup, telling us that the final would likely be his last match. We knew it, but we weren't prepared for it. It hurts a lot" [6].
Paredes has yet to discuss his international future directly with Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni but plans to do so soon. He also hopes to appeal the 10-match ban in an attempt to reduce the suspension [1, 3, 4, 6].
Argentina is set to play two friendlies in September 2026, though opponents have not been confirmed [5]. The team will defend its Copa America title at the 2028 tournament [5]. Meanwhile, reports suggest the Argentine Football Association plans a farewell match for Messi [6].
