Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has revealed that 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 decided before the final that it would be his last appearance for Argentina. However, he expressed hope that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner would reconsider and continue playing for the national team.
Paredes also admitted that several members of Argentina’s squad are now weighing their own international futures after the World Cup, saying it will be difficult to maintain the same level and chemistry that defined the team over the past eight years.
The 32-year-old also dismissed conspiracy theories surrounding Argentina’s World Cup campaign, insisting he pays no attention to outside criticism. He acknowledged that Spain deserved to win the final but said Argentina still enjoyed an outstanding tournament.
Reflecting on the team’s recent success, Paredes described the past eight years as an incredible journey and said it had been a privilege to be part of one of the most successful eras in Argentina’s history. He added that the players would likely appreciate their achievements even more as time passes.
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