Leandro Paredes continues to be the focus of criticism following an unbridled act in Boca Juniors’ 2-2 draw against Newell’s Old Boys.
Leandro Paredes once again has fans talking about him for his hot-headed moments rather than his performance on the pitch.
The Argentine midfielder received a yellow card following an act deemed unsporting in the 2-2 draw between Boca Juniors and Newell’s Old Boys in round 3 of the second stage of the Argentine national championship on August 3.
In the 68th minute, while Facundo Guch of Newell’s Old Boys was down on the pitch following a collision, Paredes unexpectedly kicked the ball directly into his opponent’s back. The referee immediately showed a yellow card to the Boca Juniors midfielder, while the incident quickly went viral on social media.
Many fans expressed disappointment with Paredes’ behavior. Some comments suggested that the 32-year-old midfielder “never learns” and frequently appears in controversial situations.
This latest incident further brings Paredes back into the spotlight following the chaos at the 2026 World Cup final. After the 0-1 defeat to Spain, the midfielder clashed with several opposing players.
FIFA has opened an investigation into the incident where he committed an off-the-ball assault during the scuffle, alongside other Argentine players such as Nahuel Molina and Nicolas Otamendi.
This is not the first time Paredes has lost control in intense matches. At the 2022 World Cup, he sparked controversy in the quarter-final against the Netherlands when he fouled Nathan Ake and then blasted the ball into the opponent’s technical area, causing players from both teams to clash.
In a Roma shirt, Paredes was also sent off in a match against Genoa in 2024 after receiving two yellow cards in just a few seconds for repeatedly reacting to the referee.
Paredes is still highly rated for his passing ability and football IQ. However, his fiery temperament is becoming a major drawback in the career of the midfielder who once played for Paris Saint Germain.
