Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has said he is uncertain whether he is mentally ready to continue playing for the national team after Argentina lost the 2026 World Cup final 1-0 to Spain. In an interview with Spanish outlet Marca, published on July 24, the Boca Juniors player said he would need time to consider his future with the national side.

Paredes said the pain of losing the final would take a long time to overcome, despite Argentina's major achievements. He said maintaining the team's current level and carrying its structure forward would be difficult, adding that many players faced a time to make decisions calmly and after careful thought.

Reflecting on the successful period that began with the 2021 Copa America, Paredes said he was proud of the trophies won and of a World Cup team in which people found what they wanted. He dismissed wider discussion around refereeing, VAR and conspiracy theories, saying Argentina had a strong tournament but Spain played better in the final and deserved the title. Debate is also continuing over the futures of coach Lionel Scaloni, Lionel Messi and several senior players.