[Official] "Unprecedented decision" even the local authorities were surprised by FIFA's approval... Leandro Paredes' 10-match ban also applies to friendly matches

*This content was translated by AI.

The suspension of Argentina national team midfielder Leandro Paredes, who received a 10-match ban for assaulting an opponent immediately after the 2026 FIFA North American World Cup final, will also apply to A-international friendly matches.

On the 28th (Korean time), the Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced via its official website that "FIFA has approved AFA's request regarding the World Cup suspension." According to local reports, AFA requested that the suspension imposed on national team players be applicable in A-international friendly matches, and FIFA accepted this request.

Had FIFA not approved AFA's request, Paredes' 10-match ban would have been enforceable only through official competitions organized by FIFA, such as World Cup qualifiers. However, since the suspension can now be served even through simple friendly matches, Paredes' return is expected to happen sooner than anticipated. Already, six matches are scheduled this year alone: four consecutive A-international friendlies in September–October and two more in November.

The local media also expressed surprise at FIFA's approval. Fox Sports reported, "Paredes and Nahuel Molina (7-match ban) can now serve their suspensions through A-international friendly matches," adding, "FIFA approved AFA's request. This decision by FIFA is unprecedented."

Separately from this request allowing suspension service in friendly matches, it was reported that AFA is also considering an appeal against the number of matches suspended for Paredes and Molina. AFA stated, "We are waiting for the grounds of FIFA's disciplinary decision to protect the rights of the association and players. After confirming the grounds, we plan to proceed with appeal procedures, and if necessary, file a case with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)."

Earlier, Paredes faced severe criticism after the 2026 North American World Cup final against Spain last month, where he was at the center of a brawl by grabbing Spanish player Eric Garcia's neck and pushing Gavi to the ground following the loss. In response, FIFA's disciplinary committee imposed a severe sanction on Paredes: a seven-match ban and a fine of 90,000 dollars (approximately 130 million won).

Molina, also from the same national team, received a seven-match ban and a 90,000-dollar fine. Thiago Almada was given a one-match ban and a 30,000-dollar fine (approximately 42 million won). In Spain, Gavi also received a one-match suspension.

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*This content was translated by AI.