Saviola backs Paredes as Argentina captain after Messi

Javier Saviola says Leandro Paredes should replace Lionel Messi as Argentina's captain when Messi retires from the role. Saviola told Marca that Paredes has a 'strong personality' and 'demonstrated capabilities' to be an 'exceptional captain,' alongside Julian Alvarez, Nicolas Tagliafico, and Emiliano Martinez as key figures.

This matters for Nigerian football because Argentina is Nigeria's historic World Cup rival. The upcoming captaincy change will shape La Albiceleste's leadership and potentially its on-field decisions for years to come, affecting how they approach matches against Nigeria.

Messi has captained Argentina since 2011, leading them to the 2022 World Cup and Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024. At 38, his captaincy days are numbered, though he hasn't decided on the 2026 World Cup yet. Coach Lionel Scaloni wants Messi there, but succession planning is urgent.

Paredes, 31, has 76 caps and was part of all the recent trophy-winning squads. As a defensive midfielder, his leadership style would differ from Messi's creative influence. How that shifts Argentina's tactics is still unclear, but the transition is inevitable.

Nigerian fans should monitor this development. If Paredes becomes captain, will Argentina become more disciplined or less flashy? Could that change Nigeria's tactical game plan if they meet in the 2026 World Cup? How would a defensive-minded captain affect Argentina's attacking flair?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/03/29/javier-saviola-backs-leandro-paredes-as-successor-to-lionel-messi/