Suspended Paredes Visits Argentina Camp to Support Scaloni’s Squad
Leandro Paredes has visited Argentina’s Lionel Messi Training Complex to watch Lionel Scaloni’s squad train, despite being ruled out of the coming friendlies by a 10-match FIFA suspension.
The Boca Juniors midfielder cannot be selected after the incidents surrounding Argentina’s 2026 World Cup final against Spain. But his appearance at the camp offered support to the group as the world champions begin a three-match international window.
Quick facts
- Paredes is serving a 10-game FIFA ban.
- He has 84 Argentina caps and five international goals.
- The 32-year-old was part of the 2022 World Cup-winning squad and the side that reached the 2026 final.
- Argentina face Bolivia on Wednesday, Burkina Faso on Saturday and Benin next Tuesday.
Scaloni said Paredes remains firmly in his plans once the suspension has been completed. The Argentina coach stressed that the midfielder’s contribution to the national side ensures he will continue to have a place around the setup.
“He is part of the national team,” Scaloni said. “For what he has given us, because he is a legend and we love him. The doors are open. Unfortunately, we cannot have him for these games. If he is at this level when he is available, he will be considered.”
Paredes had indicated after Boca’s Copa Argentina win over Racing that he intended to visit the squad, even though he could not take part. He said he still feels part of the group and would have joined the camp as a player had he not been suspended.
Argentina open their schedule against Bolivia on Wednesday night at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes. Burkina Faso then travel to Estadio Monumental on Saturday, before Benin provide the final opposition next Tuesday evening.
What happens next: Scaloni’s staff will use the three fixtures to assess Argentina’s options in defensive midfield while Paredes remains unavailable for competitive selection.
