Leandro Paredes Casts Doubt on Argentina Future After FIFA Ban
· Sports · BBC Sport, Sportstar
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes stated that continuing his international career will be difficult following a 10-match ban imposed by FIFA. The suspension stems from an on-pitch confrontation following Argentina's 1-0 defeat by Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, during which the 32-year-old grabbed Eric Garcia by the throat and wrestled Gavi to the ground. Paredes also pointed to Lionel Messi's international retirement as a factor influencing his decision to step away. Messi recently announced his retirement from international football after scoring 125 goals in 207 appearances and captaining Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022. Paredes noted he has not yet discussed the matter with coach Lionel Scaloni.
Why it matters
The departure of both Lionel Messi and potentially Leandro Paredes marks a significant generational shift for Argentina's national football team following their 2026 World Cup campaign.
Read the original report — BBC Sport
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