Paredes believes Messi decided World Cup final was his Argentina farewell
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes said he believes Lionel Messi had already decided the 2026 World Cup final would be his last national-team match. Speaking to DSports after the 1-0 extra-time loss to Spain, Paredes hoped Messi would reconsider. The 39-year-old, who has 125 goals in 207 appearances and won the 2022 World Cup, has not confirmed retirement; neither has the AFA.