Leandro Paredes has admitted that his future with Argentina is now uncertain, creating another awkward chapter for a national team still trying to process the end of Lionel Messi’s international career. In comments reported on Tuesday, the 32-year-old midfielder said continuing with the Albiceleste would be “difficult” because of both his 10-match FIFA suspension and Messi’s decision to retire from international football.
The timing has given Argentine football what OGM News FC understands to be a particularly uncomfortable problem: just when the team needs experienced players to help begin a new era, one of them is wondering whether he should remain around for it. And, in the finest traditions of football drama, the paperwork appears to have arrived with its own plot twist.
Messi Leaves, Paredes Pauses
Messi officially announced his retirement from Argentina’s national team on August 31, bringing an emotional end to a remarkable international career that included the 2022 World Cup triumph and the 2026 World Cup final. FIFA and other reports confirmed that the 39-year-old intends to step away after nearly two decades with the national side.
Paredes said Messi’s absence would be keenly felt, praising his legacy, determination and achievements. He recalled that the players had already discussed the possibility that the 2026 final against Spain could be Messi’s last appearance, but admitted they were not emotionally prepared for the reality of losing such a defining figure.
Ten Matches, One Very Long Think
Paredes’ uncertainty is also tied to a disciplinary punishment that has suddenly made his international calendar look rather empty. FIFA handed him a 10-match suspension after the post-final confrontation with Spain, where he pushed Gavi to the ground and was involved in further physical contact during the melee. He was also fined $90,000.
Argentina’s disciplinary headache goes beyond Paredes. Nahuel Molina was given a seven-match ban and a $90,000 fine, while Thiago Almada and Spain’s Gavi were also suspended for one match. The Argentine Football Association was separately fined $321,000 for several incidents during the tournament. For Paredes, however, the question is no longer simply when he can return—it is whether he will still want to return. He said he has not yet discussed the matter with coach Lionel Scaloni, leaving the next conversation potentially more important than the next match.
The emerging picture is therefore unmistakably dramatic: Argentina has lost Messi, Paredes is suspended and another generation must now decide who is ready to carry the weight of the famous shirt. OGM News FC will continue to watch the situation as Paredes speaks with Scaloni and Argentina begins the difficult business of moving beyond its Messi era.
