Buenos Aires, Sep 03 (V7N)- World Cup-winning Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has hinted that he may retire from international football following Lionel Messi’s decision to step away from the national team.
The 32-year-old midfielder recently spoke about his future at a press conference, saying Messi’s departure, his FIFA suspension and the current situation of the Argentina national team have made it difficult for him to decide whether to continue.
Paredes said it could be difficult for him to remain with the national team. He added that he has not yet spoken with head coach Lionel Scaloni and that they will discuss the matter before a final decision is made.
The Argentine midfielder also expressed his disappointment over Messi’s departure. He said the legacy Messi left behind would remain forever, highlighting the captain’s message of never giving up, pursuing dreams and making them a reality.
Asked whether he expected to see Messi in an Argentina jersey again, Paredes said they always wanted Messi to remain by their side. However, he acknowledged that Messi had made a decision the team did not want.
Paredes also recalled a conversation with Messi near the end of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. According to him, Messi had indicated that the final against France could be his last match for Argentina. However, the players were not ready to accept the possibility because of Messi’s importance to the team.
Paredes’ international future has also been affected by a FIFA suspension. He was reportedly banned for 10 matches and fined $90,000 following his involvement in a confrontation with Spain’s Eric Garcia and Gavi after the World Cup final.
If Paredes ultimately decides to retire from international football, his departure would represent another major change for Argentina following the possible end of Messi’s international career.
END/SMA/AJ
