Leandro Paredes has cast serious doubt on his international career following Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. The Boca Juniors captain returned to domestic action just four days after the heartbreaking loss, captaining his side to a 1-0 victory over O'Higgins, but admitted uncertainty about continuing with the Albiceleste.
The 32-year-old midfielder revealed the physical and emotional toll of Argentina's tournament run. Paredes played through a fractured rib sustained during their fixture against Egypt, managing the injury with orthopaedic support to remain available for selection. "The first few days were tough because I had a small fracture, but now I'm feeling better," he told ESPN. "The severe pain was in the first few days after the match against Egypt, and we managed it well with orthopaedic specialists and staff."
Dismissing Conspiracy Theories, Acknowledging Spain's Superiority
Paredes firmly rejected external narratives and conspiracy theories surrounding Argentina's campaign. "If I listened to everything out there, I must be going crazy," he stated. "Everything that was said before, during, and after the World Cup... Spain was superior to us in the final, they are fair winners, and all that's left for us is to appreciate what we accomplished over these eight years." The midfielder acknowledged the spectacular cycle Argentina had maintained, describing it as "a pleasure to be part of."
The emotional recovery from losing a World Cup final will require considerable time. Paredes emphasised the squad's achievement in maintaining elite standards across an eight-year period, noting: "Even though we achieved important things, losing the World Cup final is going to hurt for a long time because we were so close once again. We have to take pride in it, because maintaining the level we kept for so long isn't easy."
Uncertainty Surrounding Squad's Direction
The midfielder hinted at broader changes ahead for the national team, with manager Lionel Scaloni and captain Lionel Messi also facing uncertain futures. Paredes explained: "For many, it will be a matter of deciding whether to continue or not. It's going to be very difficult to maintain this level and keep the group functioning this way. A lot of things need to be weighed up, and we need to talk with the manager and make calm decisions."
On his own position, Paredes remained measured: "I don't know. It's a process: you have to digest it, think it through, avoid making rushed decisions, and it's certainly something that needs to be discussed." Scaloni and Argentina's coaching staff must clarify the squad's composition before upcoming World Cup qualifiers, with decisions from experienced players like Paredes proving crucial to determining whether the Albiceleste face a gradual transition or attempt to rebuild around new leadership.
