Messi retirement and FIFA ban leave Paredes uncertain of Argentina future

What the report says

Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes says his international future is uncertain after FIFA handed him a 10-match suspension for his role in a post-World Cup final altercation, and after Lionel Messi announced he is retiring from Argentina duty. The comments were reported by Reuters and published by Al Jazeera on 2 September 2026.

According to the report, the disciplinary case stemmed from a brawl that followed Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the World Cup final. Paredes was accused of shoving Spain midfielder Gavi as emotions spilled over when substitutes moved onto the pitch after the final whistle. Teammate Nahuel Molina was also sanctioned, and both players were fined $90,000.

Paredes, 32, told Argentine media that it would be difficult to keep playing for the national team under the current circumstances. He said he had not yet spoken in detail with coach Lionel Scaloni, but would discuss the matter before making a decision. He also said Messi’s departure would be deeply felt, describing the captain’s influence on the team and acknowledging that many players expected the final to be Messi’s last match.

The report notes that Argentina are due to return in September for two friendlies, with opponents still unconfirmed, and that the team will defend their Copa America title in 2028.