Argentina star hints at international retirement following World Cup final loss

By Sanjay Menon — 24 July 2026 — 5 min read

Leandro Paredes, a midfielder for Argentina, has indicated uncertainty regarding his international career after the team’s loss to Spain in the FIFA World Cup final. The defeat, 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. During a mass confrontation between players from both teams, he was observed grabbing Spain defender Eric García by the throat and wrestling Gavi to the ground. Reports also suggested he appeared to throw punches.

The Boca Juniors midfielder has since faced scrutiny, with FIFA initiating a disciplinary investigation into the conduct of several members of the Argentina delegation following the final. Despite early reports suggesting a red card, FIFA later clarified that Paredes did not receive one, though disciplinary proceedings are underway to examine his actions.

Uncertainty Surrounds International Future

Following Argentina’s defeat, the 32-year-old Paredes revealed he is contemplating whether his international career has concluded. He acknowledged that several experienced members of the squad face important decisions after the conclusion of another World Cup cycle.

Paredes stated, “For many, it will be the time to decide if to continue. It was a great journey. Maintaining that level – getting the group to continue to function as it has – will be very difficult, and there are many factors to consider.” He added that decisions must be made calmly and that he is unsure if he is ready to continue, describing it as a process that requires time to assimilate and mature.

The midfielder also expressed that the disappointment of falling short in another World Cup final will remain 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 noted, “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.”

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. 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.” He continued by thanking everyone involved with the national team, calling it an honour to be part of what he described as the best Argentina team in history. Notably, his message did not include an apology or expression of regret for his role in the post-match confrontation.

Post-Match Chaos and Reactions

Argentina’s title defence ended in frustration after Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute of extra time, securing Spain’s second World Cup title. The defending champions were 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 quickly descended into disorder as Spain’s substitutes and staff ran onto the pitch. Tensions escalated when Argentine players reacted to the celebrations. Footage appeared to show Nahuel Molina confronting Spain captain Rodri. Eric García then intervened, leading to a wider confrontation. Paredes charged into the melee, grabbing García by the throat before turning his attention to Gavi, whom he wrestled to the ground.

The clash escalated into a mass brawl involving players pushing, shoving, and exchanging blows before coaching staff, including Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni, intervened to restore order. FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings to examine the conduct of Paredes and other members of the Argentina delegation, using the referee’s report and video evidence. Should breaches of the FIFA Disciplinary Code be established, further sporting sanctions could follow.

Pundits widely condemned the post-match conduct. Micah Richards described the incident as “embarrassing,” while Joe Hart called it “Disgusting behaviour.” Wayne Rooney also criticised Argentina’s reaction, stating, “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 want Paredes to receive a lengthy suspension.

Squad Transition and Messi’s Future

Paredes’ comments come as Argentina prepares for what could be a significant rebuild. Head coach Lionel Scaloni has also 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 possible decision regarding his international future, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the squad’s next cycle. Uncertainty also surrounds captain Lionel Messi, who is 39 and has not yet confirmed whether the World Cup final marked his final international appearance. Paredes, after recently featuring for his club Boca Juniors, commented on Messi’s situation, saying, “I think he has made his decision, and that it really was his last match with the national team. I hope that is not the case, and I hope he can carry on playing, but the decision ultimately rests with him.”

Paredes also admitted that Spain deserved to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, dismissing conspiracy theories surrounding Argentina’s defeat. He told ESPN, as quoted by Goal.com, “Spain were better than us in the final, and they deserve to win the World Cup. We pay no attention to these theories.”

The pain of losing the World Cup final will remain with the squad for a long time, as they were once again close to the trophy.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com