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Leandro Paredes is reportedly prepared to bring an end to his international career with Argentina after the fallout from a chaotic World Cup final. The veteran midfielder is facing a lengthy suspension and has admitted that things have changed drastically following the retirement of talisman Lionel Messi.

International future uncertain after major disciplinary setback

Argentina midfielder Paredes is said to be ready to announce his retirement from international football only weeks after the end of a turbulent World Cup campaign. The 32-year-old, who is currently Boca Juniors captain, was at the centre of a controversial mass brawl after Argentina's defeat to Spain in the final - an incident that resulted in a 10-match ban and a £66,000 fine for throwing punches and violently shoving Gavi to the ground.

The scale of the punishment, along with three assault charges, appears to have accelerated his decision to move on from La Albiceleste. Although FIFA later accepted a request from the Argentine FA to let the suspension be served during Class A friendlies as well as competitive matches, Paredes reportedly has little desire to see out the ban.

The Messi factor and talks with Lionel Scaloni

Apart from his disciplinary troubles, Paredes has pointed to Messi's exit as a key reason behind his possible departure. The iconic forward recently confirmed his own retirement from international football, creating a huge gap in the squad that Paredes feels cannot be filled. Discussing the matter, the midfielder said he is ready to hold decisive talks with head coach Lionel Scaloni to settle his future.

Paredes spoke openly about how difficult it would be to continue as before, saying: 'It's going to be difficult for me to stay with the national team. Because of the suspension as well, because of Leo's decision. It's going to be difficult for everything to carry on as before. I haven't discussed it with the coach yet, but we'll talk about it and see what decision I make.'

A legacy of triumph and controversy

If Paredes does decide to walk away, he will do so with an impressive list of honours. He was an important part of the squad that won the World Cup four years ago and has also lifted the Copa America on two occasions. However, his final chapter in an Argentina shirt is likely to remain tied to the ugly scenes in New Jersey.

Looking back on Messi's departure, Paredes added: 'Leo's legacy will live on forever because of what he achieved, for never giving up and for showing that dreams are hard won, pursued and, in the end, fulfilled. We'd spoken in the final days of the World Cup about how the final would surely be his last match, but even so, we weren't prepared for that because of what he means to us.'

Hostile reception back home

The consequences of the World Cup have also followed Paredes into domestic football in Argentina. During a recent appearance for Boca Juniors, the midfielder needed protection from riot police while trying to take a corner. Hostile Newell's Old Boys supporters targeted him and threw projectiles in response to his conduct during the international break.

These growing pressures, both at home and on the international stage, indicate that the combative figure in Argentina's midfield is ready for a different phase. With 84 caps to his name, Paredes has little left to prove when it comes to silverware, having already won the biggest prizes the game has to offer.