Argentina's Paredes faces possible 9-match ban from FIFA disciplinary case

Argentina and Boca Juniors midfielder Leandro Paredes faces a lengthy suspension under a disciplinary investigation opened by FIFA. Footage from the closing minutes of the 2026 World Cup final against Spain showed him kicking, shoving and striking the neck area of Spanish defender Eric Garcia during a brawl, and he is also accused of an assault on teammate Gavi. Under Article 14 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, each separate offensive act carries a minimum three-match ban. If he is found guilty in all three incidents, Paredes could receive a nine-match international suspension. Asked about his international career after the final, Paredes declined to give a clear answer and suggested he could leave the national team. FIFA would have no means to enforce a ban if he chose to retire from international football, according to reports on the case.