Paredes says suspension, Messi retirement make Argentina future uncertain

Midfielder Leandro Paredes has expressed his concerns over Argentina's future following his 10-match suspension and Lionel Messi's retirement announcement. The 32-year-old player received the suspension last August, after a brawl erupted at the end of the World Cup final against Spain. Paredes was charged with three counts of assault, along with teammate Nahuel Molina, who faced two charges, and both were fined $90,000.

Speaking to Argentine media, Paredes revealed that the suspension and Messi's retirement have made it difficult to continue playing for the national team. "It’s going to be difficult for me to stay with the national team," he said, attributing the uncertainty to both the suspension and Messi's decision to retire. Paredes has yet to discuss the matter with the coach, Lionel Scaloni, but plans to address it in the coming days.

The Argentina captain also acknowledged the immense impact Messi has had on the team. "Leo’s legacy will live on forever," Paredes stated, praising Messi for his never-giving-up attitude, his relentless pursuit of his dreams, and ultimately, his achievements. "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."