Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has admitted that his future with the national team is uncertain following his 10-match suspension and Lionel Messi’s decision to retire from international football.
The 32-year-old midfielder was suspended in August over his role in a post-match brawl that broke out after Argentina’s World Cup final defeat to Spain.
The altercation erupted at the final whistle when Paredes shoved Spain midfielder Gavi to the ground as Spanish substitutes rushed onto the pitch to celebrate their victory.
Paredes was handed a 10-match suspension after facing three assault charges, while his Argentina teammate Nahuel Molina was charged twice. Both players were also fined $90,000.
Speaking to Argentine media on Tuesday, Paredes said the suspension and Messi’s retirement had made him reconsider his international future.
“It’s going to be difficult for me to stay with the national team,” Paredes said.
“Because of the suspension as well, because of Leo’s decision… It’s going to be difficult for everything to carry on as before.
“I haven’t discussed it with the coach, Lionel Scaloni, yet, but we’ll talk about it and see what decision I make.”
Paredes also reflected on Messi’s impact on Argentina and admitted that the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner’s absence would be deeply felt within the squad.
“Leo’s legacy will live on forever because of what he achieved, for never giving up and for showing that dreams are hard-won, pursued and, in the end, fulfilled,” he said.
“We’d spoken in the final days of the World Cup about how the final would surely be his last match, but even so, we weren’t prepared for that because of what he means to us.”
Paredes is yet to make a final decision on his international future and is expected to discuss the matter with head coach Lionel Scaloni.
