Paredes spoke about Messi's future in the national team: 'I think he had made a decision'

Leandro Paredes has cast doubt on Lionel Messi's future with the Argentine national team, suggesting that the recent final may have been his last appearance. Paredes stated that he believes Messi had made the decision to step away from international football after the match, a sentiment that reportedly weighed heavily on the team in the locker room.

This potential retirement follows a pattern in Messi's storied career. He famously announced his retirement from the national team in 2016 after losing a Copa América final, only to reverse his decision a few months later. The article notes that Messi himself had previously indicated he would continue playing as long as he felt he could contribute meaningfully to the team, a condition he clearly met during the recent tournament with his significant goal contributions.

The report also recalls Messi's previous international retirement after the 2018 World Cup elimination, where he remained silent immediately after the match but was later absent from national team call-ups. His return eventually came under coach Lionel Scaloni, leading up to the current period. The article highlights the emotional weight of Messi's potential departure, emphasizing his crucial role and the deep connection he shares with the team and the fans.

Paredes expressed hope that Messi would reconsider, stating that his happiness is paramount. The article concludes by referencing Messi's initial retirement announcement ten years prior, after losing the Copa América Centenario final, underscoring the long and complex relationship Messi has had with the Argentine national team throughout his career.