"No Conspiracy, Spain Were Better" — Paredes Closes the Debate, Opens the Messi Question

Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has spoken again about the 2026 World Cup final, lost 1-0 by the Albiceleste to Spain, categorically dismissing the conspiracy theories that circulated after the match and insisting that the Spanish national team deserved to be crowned champions. Paredes said: "Spain were better than us in the final, and they deserve to win the World Cup. We pay no attention to these theories — if I believed everything I hear, I would lose my mind." His comments came in response to a wave of rumors claiming the final's result had been "manipulated," including claims linking it to FIFA president Gianni Infantino's re-election, and others alleging pressure was put on Argentina over a political message about the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) displayed by players during the tournament. Paredes also revealed a striking detail about Lionel Messi's international future, saying: "It hurts, because we didn't want that last match to arrive. He had made a decision, which was for that to be his last match with the Argentina national team. Hopefully not, hopefully he can keep playing." Despite these comments, Messi has not officially confirmed any decision regarding his international retirement following the final between Spain and Argentina.