What did Leandro Paredes say about Argentina after his controversial behavior in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final?

The Argentina players reacted on social media two days after their defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina left midfielder Leandro Paredes at the center of controversy after his actions at New York/New Jersey Stadium were heavily criticized and prompted a FIFA disciplinary investigation.

Following the incident, the Boca Juniors midfielder shared his first public message after the controversy.

Paredes shares emotional message after World Cup final defeat

The 32-year-old Argentine midfielder posted a message on social media two days after Argentina's defeat to La Roja, joining several of his national team teammates in reflecting on the heartbreaking loss.

In his emotional statement, Paredes highlighted his pain after falling short in the final and expressed pride in the team's effort and in representing what he called "the best Argentina national team in history."

However, he did not apologize or express regret despite being under scrutiny for his unsportsmanlike behavior during the post-match scenes.

"Thank you, Argentina! I love you today and always. Today I write with a lot of pain in my heart because we couldn't give our country the joy it deserved, but with my chest filled with pride for giving everything we had and putting our flag at the top once again."

"Thank you to everyone who was part of this national team, to this group of players who gave everything to represent this shirt until the final second of every match. It was an honor to be part of the best Argentina team in history," Paredes wrote on Instagram.

The midfielder's message also raises questions about whether he could consider stepping away from the Argentina national team, following similar comments from goalkeeper Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez, who recently hinted at a possible international future decision.

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The controversy surrounding Leandro Paredes

The player from San Justo, Buenos Aires, became one of the main figures in the final's biggest controversy after a heated confrontation with Spanish players sparked a mass altercation on the pitch following the final whistle.

Footage showed clashes, pushing and physical confrontations involving Eric García and Gavi, making Paredes one of the main players criticized for the post-match incidents.

Although reports initially suggested he had been sent off, FIFA later clarified that Paredes did not receive a red card. However, football's governing body opened a disciplinary investigation to review his actions and those of other members of the Argentina delegation, based on referee reports and video evidence.

If violations of the FIFA Disciplinary Code are confirmed, Paredes could face additional sporting sanctions.