Leandro Paredes: Lionel Messi planned retirement after 2026 World Cup final
Leandro Paredes reveals that Lionel Messi considered the 2026 World Cup final his last match for Argentina, leaving the squad in a state of uncertainty.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: Bryan Berlin
The heartbreak of Argentina's 2026 World Cup final defeat has been compounded by revelations from Leandro Paredes regarding Lionel Messi’s international future. Speaking after returning to club duties with Boca Juniors, the midfielder admitted that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner had mentally prepared for the final against Spain to be his final appearance for the national team.
Paredes shared the news while discussing the emotional atmosphere within the squad. The revelation came shortly after the 32-year-old provided a match-winning assist in a Copa Sudamericana playoff. According to Paredes, the decision was a significant weight on the players heading into the tournament decider.
It hurts because, as we said throughout the World Cup, we didn't want the last match to arrive. I think he had made a decision that it was his last match for the national team. Leandro Paredes
Despite this, Paredes expressed hope that his former Paris Saint-Germain team-mate might reconsider his stance. He noted that the ultimate choice remains with Messi, and the team would support whatever decision brings him happiness.
The uncertainty now looms over the entire squad. Paredes also cast doubt on his own international future, suggesting that a significant overhaul could be on the horizon for Lionel Scaloni’s side. With stalwarts like Nicolas Otamendi already confirming their departures, the coaching staff must decide whether to commit to a total rebuild or attempt to retain the remaining veterans for the 2028 Copa America.