Leandro Paredes has built a reputation as one of Argentina’s most dependable midfielders. He is known for controlling games, breaking up attacks, and stepping up in big matches. While fans often focus on what he does on the field, his journey began long before professional football. His story is closely tied to the support and sacrifices of his parents, Myriam Benítez and Daniel Paredes. Although their lives followed different paths, both played important roles in helping Leandro chase his dream. Their family background also reflects the strong connection between Argentina and Paraguay that remains an important part of his identity.
Leandro Paredes’ parents
Leandro Paredes was born to Myriam Benítez and Daniel Paredes. His mother, Myriam, was born in Asunción, Paraguay, and moved to Argentina when she was only a few months old. She later raised Leandro and his sisters, Vanessa and Jimena, while working hard to support the family.She faced numerous challenges while caring for the family and helping Leandro continue playing football from a young age.Daniel Paredes also shared a love for the sport. He previously played as a midfielder for Cañuelas FC in Argentina. Even though he and Myriam later separated, Daniel remained involved during Leandro’s early football years. One well-known moment came when he took his son to a River Plate, with Leandro nine years old. The move did not work out, but it became one of the first important steps in the midfielder’s football journey.
How Leandro Paredes’ family background shaped his football journey?
Leandro Paredes proudly represents Argentina, but his family has deep Paraguayan roots. Myriam has often spoken about that part of their heritage. In one interview, she said, “He has Paraguayan blood, his mother and father are Paraguayan, my parents, his grandparents… We have a lot of Guaraní blood.”That connection has remained an important part of Leandro’s life. He speaks Guaraní, one of Paraguay’s official languages, and his Argentina teammates have nicknamed him “El Paragua” because of his family background. He has mentioned enjoying the food from his birthplace as well, proving that despite making his name in Argentina and Europe, he has never forgotten his roots.The mother of Leandro still maintains a strong relationship with him, being with him throughout all phases of his career. From times when he did not have money to celebrating Argentina’s FIFA World Cup win in Qatar, she has stood by his side. He has often said that football has been his childhood dream.His relationship with Daniel is also in the limelight. Daniel has openly expressed how proud he is of his son. He even got a tattoo showing himself walking beside a young Leandro wearing Boca Juniors’ famous No. 5 shirt, along with the words, “Siempre a tu lado” (“Always by your side”). More recently, when rumors linked Leandro with a move away from Boca Juniors, Daniel defended him by saying, “Nobody moves him from here. Let the people rest easy.”Today, Leandro Paredes’ career reflects not only his talent but also the influence of two parents who supported him in different ways.
