SportFootballArgentina football teamLeandro Paredes was hit with a 10-game ban following his vile behaviour after Argentina’s World Cup final defeat to Spain and he has suggested that he may never represent his country again18:06, 02 Sep 2026Argentina’s Leandro Paredes has hinted that he could retire from international duty after being slapped with a 10-match ban. The Boca Juniors midfielder sparked an ugly brawl after the South American nation’s World Cup final defeat by Spain.‌He shoved Spain star Gavi to the floor and faced three FIFA assault charges. After an investigation, FIFA handed him a 10-match ban and Paredes has now suggested that he might have made his last appearance for his country due that suspension, as well as Lionel Messi’s decision to hang up his boots for Argentina.‌“It's going to be difficult for me to stay with the national team,” Paredes said. “Because of the suspension as well, because of Leo's decision... It's going to be difficult for everything to carry on as before.‌“I haven't discussed it with the coach (Lionel Scaloni) yet, but we'll talk about it and see what decision I make.”Paredes, 32, has made 84 appearances in all for Argentina during his career, having made his debut back in 2017. He has also represented Roma, Zenit, PSG, Juventus and Roma.‌His comments come after he took aim at FIFA for their ban. He said: "That seems excessive to me. It is also strange that Gavi only received a suspension, even though he struck me in the chest. But well, that's how it is now. We now have to appeal against the sanction."The people who know about these things will see whether they can overturn it. For me, it is excessive and I think it can be reduced."‌Meanwhile, he has also commented on Messi’s decision to retire from international duty following the World Cup defeat. He said: “Leo's legacy will live on forever because of what he achieved, for never giving up and for showing that dreams are hard-won, pursued and, in the end, fulfilled.“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.”Messi retires having made 207 appearances for Argentina in over 20 years and in that time, he has netted 125 goals. He helped the South American side to the World Cup in Qatar four years ago and has also won the Copa America twice. Messi has also claimed the Ballon d’Or on eight occasions during his lengthy career.Article continues belowJoin our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Content cannot be displayed without consentChoose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Lionel MessiLionel ScaloniFIFAArgentina football teamFIFA World Cup