Paredes faces uncertain future after 10‑match ban as Argentina reels
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes, 32, has said it will be difficult to remain with the national side after FIFA imposed a 10‑match ban for his role in the post‑final brawl that followed the South American team's 2026 World Cup defeat to Spain.
The incident erupted at full‑time after Argentina's 2026 World Cup final loss to Spain. Paredes shoved Gavi to the floor, grabbed Eric Garcia by the throat and appeared to throw a punch, actions that led FIFA to charge him with three counts of assault. The governing body imposed a 10‑match ban and a $90,000 fine.
Paredes weighs his future
Paredes told reporters, “It’s going to be difficult for me to stay with the national team because of the suspension as well as Leo’s decision.” He added that he has not yet spoken to coach Lionel Scaloni. The comments were published by Sports Writer Daniel Orme on Sep 2, 2026, accompanied by two Images and an Image from Getty, and the piece carries a View and Comments section. The Sport section highlighted the story.
Messi announced his retirement shortly after the defeat, ending a 21‑year international career that saw him score 125 goals in 207 appearances for Argentina. The Argentine legend’s legacy, he said, will live on forever, a sentiment echoed across America and the football world.
Paredes, 32, has earned 84 caps for Argentina since his debut in 2017 and currently plies his trade with Boca Juniors. His club résumé includes spells at Roma, Zenit, Paris Saint‑Germain, Juventus and a second stint at Roma. His performances have often been praised for their composure in midfield.
FIFA sanction and possible ban reduction
FIFA’s disciplinary panel confirmed the three assault charges and the 10‑match suspension, which the Argentine FA (FA) hopes to serve in Class A friendlies. If the ban can be completed in such matches, Paredes could be available again before the end of 2026. The Argentine FA hopes the reduced timeline will aid squad planning for upcoming qualifiers.
Argentina’s Nahuel Molina and Thiago Almada also received bans and fines, as did coach Roberto Ayala, highlighting the breadth of the post‑final chaos. The incident has sparked widespread Comments among fans and officials.
That contrast between Paredes’ uncertain future and Messi’s celebrated exit underscores a period of transition for Argentina, where the loss of a captain and the possible loss of a midfielder could reshape the national squad.