BUENOS AIRES – Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has revealed that captain Lionel Messi had planned to retire from international football following the FIFA World Cup final against Spain.
Speaking after Boca Juniors’ recent match, Paredes said Messi had already decided before the final that it would be his final appearance for Argentina. However, the midfielder expressed hope that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner would reconsider and continue representing the national team.
Paredes also disclosed that several members of Argentina’s World Cup squad are now evaluating their own international futures.
He said it would be difficult to recreate the same level of unity, consistency and success that the squad achieved during the past eight years.
Addressing criticism of Argentina’s World Cup campaign, Paredes dismissed conspiracy theories and said he does not pay attention to outside speculation.
The 32-year-old acknowledged that Spain deserved to win the World Cup final but maintained that Argentina enjoyed an outstanding tournament overall.
Reflecting on Argentina’s recent achievements, Paredes described the past eight years as an extraordinary period for the national team.
He said it had been a privilege to play alongside a group that delivered one of the most successful eras in Argentina’s football history and added that the players would likely appreciate their accomplishments even more in the years ahead.
Key points
- Leandro Paredes says Lionel Messi planned to retire after the FIFA World Cup final.
- Messi reportedly decided before the final that it would be his last match for Argentina.
- Paredes hopes the Argentina captain changes his mind and continues playing.
- Several Argentina players are also considering their international futures.
- Paredes rejected conspiracy theories surrounding Argentina’s World Cup campaign.
- He acknowledged Spain deserved to win the World Cup final.
- The midfielder described the past eight years as one of Argentina’s greatest football eras.
