Leandro Paredes considers Argentina retirement after lengthy suspension

Leandro Paredes is considering leaving Argentina’s national team after a difficult end to the 2026 World Cup and a 10-match suspension. The midfielder said the suspension, combined with Lionel Messi’s decision to end his career with the Albiceleste, made it hard to imagine continuing as before.

“It seems difficult to continue with the national team because of the suspension and Leo’s decision too,” Paredes said. “It is very difficult for all the players to be like before again.” He said he had not yet discussed retirement with coach Lionel Scaloni, but planned to do so before reaching a final decision.

The World Cup ended bitterly for Paredes. Argentina failed to retain the title after losing the final to Spain. Paredes, who now plays for Boca Juniors, also received the tournament’s heaviest suspension for an Argentina player after being found to have used violence against Spain players Eric Garcia and Gavi.

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It seems difficult to continue with the national team because of the suspension and Leo’s decision too. It is very difficult for all the players to be like before again.

The punishment further clouds his future with the national team. At 32, Paredes could not return at the earliest until November 2027, based on the suspension and Argentina’s usual schedule of two matches during each international window. That return would also depend on whether he remained part of Scaloni’s plans, or those of a new coach if Argentina changed managers.

Paredes is also considering whether younger players should take over from Argentina’s senior generation. Messi’s departure has added to the sense of uncertainty surrounding a group of players associated with major achievements for the national team.

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I have not discussed it with the coach yet, but we will do so and see what decision I make.