Leandro Paredes says his 10-match suspension and Lionel Messi’s retirement have left his future with Argentina uncertain.
The 32-year-old midfielder received the ban in August. FIFA punished him for his role in a brawl after Argentina’s World Cup final defeat by Spain.
At the final whistle, Paredes shoved Spain midfielder Gavi to the ground. Spain’s substitutes then rushed onto the pitch to celebrate their victory.
Paredes faced three assault charges over the incident. His Argentina teammate Nahuel Molina faced two charges. Both players also received fines of $90,000.
Paredes told Argentine media on Tuesday that he now faces a difficult decision over his international career.
“It’s going to be difficult for me to stay with the national team,” Paredes told Argentine media on Tuesday.
He said the suspension and Messi’s departure had changed the situation for him.
“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.”
Messi recently announced his departure from the Argentina national team. Paredes said the team would feel the absence of its captain.
“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…,” Paredes added.
Paredes also revealed that the players knew the World Cup final could be Messi’s last international game.
“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.” Paredes has yet to discuss his future with Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni. He expects to speak with the manager before deciding whether to continue his international career.
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