Gavi believes Paredes should not face suspension a...

By Rohan Gupta — 22 July 2026 — 3 min read

Spain midfielder Gavi has stated his belief that Argentina’s Leandro Paredes should not be suspended following the confrontation that occurred after the World Cup 2026 final. The incident took place as Spain celebrated their 1-0 victory over Argentina.

During the post-match fracas, Paredes, along with Nahuel Molina and Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala, were reportedly involved. Paredes appeared to push Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat. Gavi, who was an unused substitute, attempted to intervene but was pushed to the ground by Almada, and Paredes also pushed the Barcelona midfielder.

FIFA has initiated a disciplinary investigation into the events, appointing a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor. This investigation could lead to suspensions for any involved players or coaches, and the Argentine Football Association might also face a fine.

Despite the ongoing investigation, Gavi expressed his views on the matter. “I don’t think [Paredes] should be suspended,” Gavi told El Partidazo de COPE. He acknowledged that the situation might not present a positive image for children but suggested that a more physical and aggressive aspect is also part of football.

Gavi added that the most logical action would have been to send Paredes off during the match itself. He concluded by saying, “In the end, I think it’s all football and it has to be that way.”

Roberto Ayala, Argentina’s assistant coach, also commented on his involvement in the scuffle. He indicated that he would apologise to Spain’s Dani Olmo, stating that his action was “more of a push than a punch.” Ayala explained that he went to the middle of the pitch to prevent the situation from escalating.

Ayala took responsibility for his actions, clarifying that his intention was to separate the players. He told Capital Radio in Valencia, “When the match ended, I saw a scuffle in the middle of the pitch and I went over to stop it from escalating, because that’s not who we are.”

Initial reports from FIFA’s commentator information system incorrectly indicated that Paredes had been sent off by referee Slavko Vincic for pushing Garcia. However, this red card was later removed from the system, and FIFA confirmed that no disciplinary action was taken at that time.

Paredes himself has addressed the events publicly on Instagram, reflecting on Argentina’s campaign and thanking supporters. His statement, however, did not include an apology or any direct reference to the post-match confrontation that has drawn significant attention.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. This investigation follows an assessment of the relevant match reports for the final between Spain and Argentina.

Television footage captured several key moments during the celebrations, including Paredes’ interaction with Eric Garcia and Gavi. Nahuel Molina was also reportedly involved in an exchange with Spain captain Rodri. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and other players intervened to restore order.

The controversy extended beyond the pitch incidents, as Argentina’s players also faced criticism for turning their backs to the newly crowned champions as Spain collected the World Cup trophy. The FIFA investigation is ongoing, and the governing body has not yet provided a timeline for its conclusion.

Another incident involved Ayala and Olmo, which Ayala described as a “shove more than anything else.” He expressed regret for his actions, acknowledging that his position requires him to control his emotions. Ayala stated that he would apologise to Olmo in person if they meet.

The only dismissal during the final was Enzo Fernandez of Argentina, who received a second yellow card in second-half added time.