Why Leandro Paredes Started on the Bench in Argentina’s 2026 World Cup Final

A Surprising Choice by the Coach

In the final of the 2026 World Cup, Argentina played against Spain. One big surprise was that Lionel Scaloni, Argentina’s coach, did not put Leandro Paredes in the starting team. Instead, Paredes began the match sitting on the bench (the seats for players who are not starting).

This choice was mostly a tactical decision—meaning the coach and his team picked a plan for how to play the game.

Paredes Is Experienced but Not in the Starting Lineup

Even though Paredes is one of the most experienced players in the Argentina team and he plays for Boca Juniors (a famous football club), he was not chosen to start in this super important match.

It Was Not Because of a Ban or Being Hurt

The decision had nothing to do with a suspension (being punished and not allowed to play).

• Paredes had a muscle injury a few weeks before the World Cup.
• He recovered and was healthy and ready to play in the final.
• So, he was available—just not picked to start.

Important Point: Paredes was fit to play! The reason he was on the bench was purely the coach’s game plan, not an injury or a punishment.

The Midfield That Worked Well

Scaloni decided to keep the same midfield (the players in the middle of the field who link defense and attack) that had been successful during the tournament:

1. Rodrigo De Paul
2. Enzo Fernández
3. Alexis Mac Allister

From the start of the World Cup, the coach preferred these three over Paredes because they gave the team:

• Balance (a good mix of defense and attack)
• Dynamic play (fast and smooth movement)

This preference continued into the final against Spain.

Paredes as a Key Substitute

Because of this, the world champions played the most important match of the tournament with Paredes as a top substitute on the bench. He was ready to come into the game if needed.

Summary

Leandro Paredes did not start the 2026 World Cup final for Argentina against Spain. This was not because he was injured or suspended—he was healthy. Coach Scaloni simply chose to keep the midfield trio of De Paul, Enzo, and Mac Allister, which had been working well. Paredes waited on the bench as a strong option to use during the match.

FAQ

1. Was Paredes injured for the final?
No. He had recovered from a muscle injury before the tournament and was ready to play.

2. Did Paredes do something wrong to be benched?
No. There was no punishment. It was a tactical decision by the coach.

3. Who played in midfield instead of Paredes?
Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, and Alexis Mac Allister.

4. Could Paredes still play in the final?
Yes. He was on the bench and could enter the game if the coach decided it was necessary.