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Former Argentina international, Javier Saviola, has expressed his support for 31-year-old Leandro Paredes to assume the role of captain for Argentina following Lionel Messi’s tenure.
As Messi approaches the end of his illustrious career, there is ongoing speculation regarding who will take the reins of La Albiceleste after his retirement.
In a conversation with Marca, Javier Saviola identified Leandro Paredes as the ideal candidate to succeed Messi as captain upon his potential exit. He remarked:
“Paredes possesses a strong personality. He has demonstrated his capabilities over the past few years and has the potential to become an exceptional captain. Julian, Tagliafico, Dibu, I believe that is where the focus should be,” he stated.
Lionel Messi has been at the forefront as the captain of the Argentina national team since 2011. His inaugural match leading the team as captain was a 1–0 victory against Venezuela in a friendly held in Kolkata, India.
Under Messi’s leadership, La Albiceleste achieved remarkable success, clinching the 2022 FIFA World Cup and two Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024.
At the age of 38, Lionel Messi continues to serve as Argentina’s captain, yet his time in this role is limited. The iconic forward has not yet made a decision regarding his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, although there is significant anticipation for him to lead his country once more.
Following his departure, the future captain remains uncertain, although Leandro Paredes is a prominent contender. He made his national team debut in 2017 and has since accumulated 76 appearances for La Albiceleste. He was part of the squad that triumphed in the 2022 World Cup and the 2021 and 2024 Copa Americas.
Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, has pledged to do his utmost to ensure Lionel Messi’s presence at the 2026 World Cup.
Javier Saviola backs Leandro Paredes as successor to Lionel Messi
