Argentina star hints at international retirement after World Cup final
Uncertainty after World Cup final
Leandro Paredes, a midfielder for Argentina, has indicated uncertainty regarding his future in international football. His comments follow Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup final. The match, held at the New York New Jersey Stadium, saw Spain secure a 1-0 victory in extra time.
Paredes was involved in a post-match altercation, which occurred after Spain’s win. During the incident, he was seen grabbing Spain defender Eric García by the throat and wrestling Gavi to the ground. He also appeared to throw punches amidst a confrontation between players from both teams.
Following these events, FIFA initiated a disciplinary investigation into the conduct of several members of the Argentina delegation. Paredes, who plays for Boca Juniors, has since faced scrutiny regarding his actions.
Reflecting on the defeat and future
The 32-year-old midfielder stated he is considering whether his international career has concluded. He noted that several experienced players in the squad face important decisions after the conclusion of another World Cup cycle.
Paredes mentioned that maintaining the team’s previous level and ensuring the group continues to function as it has will be challenging. He emphasized the need for calm decision-making, stating he is unsure if he is ready to continue and that the process requires time for assimilation and maturity.
The disappointment of losing the World Cup final again will remain with the squad for a long time, according to Paredes. He expressed that the pain of coming so close to victory will linger.
Despite the heartbreak, Paredes also conveyed pride in the team’s performance throughout the tournament. He felt that the team’s play resonated with people, which he found rewarding.
Post-match message and team transition
Two days after the final, Paredes posted a message on social media, thanking Argentina’s supporters. He expressed pain over not being able to bring joy to the country but also pride in the team’s effort to represent Argentina. Notably, his message did not include an apology for his role in the post-match confrontation.
The final match saw Ferran Torres score the decisive goal in the 106th minute of extra time. Argentina had been reduced to 10 men after Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card in stoppage time for a challenge on Pau Cubarsí.
Tensions escalated after the final whistle as Spanish players celebrated. Footage reportedly showed Nahuel Molina confronting Spain captain Rodri. Eric García’s intervention then led to a wider confrontation, with Paredes charging into the melee.
The clash evolved into a mass brawl involving pushing, shoving, and blows exchanged before coaching staff, including Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni, intervened. Although initial reports suggested Paredes was sent off, FIFA later clarified he did not receive a red card. Disciplinary proceedings are underway to examine his conduct and that of other Argentina delegation members.
Pundits, including Micah Richards, Joe Hart, and Wayne Rooney, criticized the post-match conduct. Gavi, however, later indicated he did not wish for Paredes to receive a lengthy suspension.
Paredes’ statements come as Argentina faces a potential period of significant change. Coach Lionel Scaloni has hinted at his own future, while veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi has confirmed his retirement from international football. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez has also suggested a possible decision regarding his international future.
Uncertainty also surrounds captain Lionel Messi, who is 39 years old. His teammate Leandro Paredes stated, according to a Spanish newspaper, that Messi has made his decision regarding his international future, suggesting the final might have been his last match for the national team. Messi has yet to confirm whether the World Cup final marked his final international appearance.
Messi’s career with Argentina has included two Copa América titles, a World Cup, and the Finalissima during coach Lionel Scaloni’s tenure.
Paredes reflected on the team’s desire for the World Cup not to end, expressing the pain associated with the final match.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
