Argentine midfielder Leandro Paredes hints at international retirement after their World Cup final loss to Spain. Read about the match and his future.
Leandro Paredes, an Argentina midfielder, has indicated uncertainty regarding his international future following the FIFA World Cup final defeat to Spain. The match, which saw Spain secure a 1-0 extra-time victory at the New York New Jersey Stadium, was overshadowed by a post-match altercation involving Paredes.
Paredes was a central figure in the chaotic scenes that unfolded after the final whistle. He was observed grabbing Spain defender Eric García by the throat and wrestling Gavi to the ground. These actions occurred during a mass confrontation between players from both teams.
The Boca Juniors midfielder has since faced scrutiny, with FIFA initiating a disciplinary investigation into the conduct of several members of the Argentina delegation. This investigation is based on the referee’s report and video evidence from the incident.
Following Argentina’s loss, the 32-year-old Paredes stated he is considering whether his international career has concluded. He reflected on the defeat, noting that several experienced members of the squad now face significant decisions after another World Cup cycle.
Paredes shared his thoughts on the situation, as reported, saying, “For many, it will be the time to decide if to continue.” He described the journey as a “great journey” and acknowledged the difficulty in maintaining the team’s current level and group cohesion. He added that there are “many factors to consider” and that “decisions must be taken calmly.”
He also admitted, “I don’t know yet if I’m ready to continue. It’s a process that takes time to assimilate and mature.” Paredes expressed that the disappointment of falling short in another World Cup final would linger with the squad for an extended period. “It will take time to digest what we’ve been through. The pain of losing the World Cup final will stay with us for a long time, because we came so close once again.”
Despite the heartbreak, Paredes conveyed pride in the team’s achievements throughout the tournament. He remarked, “I think we played in a World Cup where people saw themselves in us, and that’s very rewarding. In that sense, I’m happy.”
Post-Match Incidents and Reactions
The final descended into disorder after Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute of extra time, securing Spain’s second World Cup title. Argentina had been reduced to 10 men after Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card in stoppage time for a challenge on Pau Cubarsí.
Moments after the final whistle, celebrations by Spain’s substitutes and staff on the pitch led to heightened tensions. Footage reportedly showed Nahuel Molina confronting Spain captain Rodri. Eric García then intervened, escalating the confrontation into a wider melee involving players from both sides.
Paredes charged into the altercation, grabbing García by the throat before turning his attention to Gavi, whom he wrestled to the ground. Several Spain players rushed in to separate those involved. The clash quickly evolved into a mass brawl, with players pushing, shoving, and exchanging blows before coaching staff, including Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni, intervened to restore order.
Although initial reports suggested Paredes had been sent off, FIFA later clarified that he did not receive a red card. However, football’s governing body subsequently initiated disciplinary proceedings to examine his conduct and that of other members of the Argentina delegation. If breaches of the FIFA Disciplinary Code are established, further sporting sanctions could be imposed.
The post-match scenes drew widespread criticism from former players and television pundits. Pundit Micah Richards described the incident as “embarrassing,” stating, “Paredes is better than that. We all know what it’s like to lose a game but this is not good enough.” Joe Hart added, “Disgusting behaviour. There was one man on that pitch with class and that was Lionel Messi.”
Wayne Rooney also criticised Argentina’s reaction, commenting, “It doesn’t surprise me. We’ve seen this from Argentina before. If you lose a game of football, be graceful. It’s a reaction to them being outplayed.” Despite the controversy, Spain midfielder Gavi later indicated he did not wish for Paredes to receive a lengthy suspension.
Future of Argentina’s Squad
Paredes’ comments come as Argentina prepares for what could be a significant rebuilding phase. Head coach Lionel Scaloni has hinted at his own future following the defeat. Veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi has already confirmed his retirement from international football after earning 139 caps, winning the 2022 World Cup, and lifting two Copa América titles.
Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez has also hinted at a potential decision regarding his international future after the final, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the squad’s next cycle. Uncertainty also surrounds captain Lionel Messi, who is now 39 and has yet to confirm whether the World Cup final marked his final international appearance.
Paredes, after recently featuring for his club Boca Juniors, commented on Messi’s future, stating, “I think he has made his decision, and that it really was his last match with the national team.” He expressed hope that this is not the case and that Messi continues playing, but acknowledged, “the decision ultimately rests with him.” Paredes added, “Anything that makes him happy will certainly make us happy, so we hope for that, we hope he continues.”
Paredes also dismissed conspiracy theories surrounding Argentina’s defeat, stating that Spain were the better team and deserved to win the World Cup. He told ESPN, as quoted, “Spain were better than us in the final, and they deserve to win the World Cup. We pay no attention to these theories.” He further explained, “If I were to believe everything I hear, I would lose my mind. A lot was said before, during and after the World Cup.”
He described the team’s recent success, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup title and two Copa America triumphs, as an exceptional journey. Paredes said that he has not yet decided on his international future and plans to discuss it with the coaching staff.
Two days after the final, Paredes addressed supporters on social media, thanking Argentina’s fans and reflecting on the disappointment of missing out on consecutive World Cup titles. He wrote, “Thank you, Argentina! I love you today and always,” adding, “Today I write with a lot of pain in my heart because we couldn’t give our country the joy it deserved, but with my chest filled with pride for giving everything we had and putting our flag at the top once again.” Notably, his message did not include an apology or express regret for his involvement in the post-match confrontation.
The FIFA disciplinary investigation into the conduct of several members of the Argentina delegation is ongoing.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
