Gavi does not think Paredes should be suspended after World Cup final confrontation
Post-Match Confrontation Under Investigation
Following the World Cup 2026 final, a confrontation involving several players from Argentina and Spain has led to a disciplinary investigation by FIFA. The incident occurred after Spain’s 1-0 victory over Argentina. Among those involved were Argentina’s Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and Thiago Almada, along with assistant coach Roberto Ayala. Spain’s Eric Garcia and Gavi were also part of the fracas.
Paredes was observed grabbing Eric Garcia around the throat and pushing him. When Gavi attempted to intervene, Paredes pushed the Barcelona midfielder to the ground by placing his hand on Gavi’s face. Molina was also seen appearing to swing a punch towards Spain captain Rodri, who then confronted him. Veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi engaged Rodri in a heated verbal exchange as tensions escalated on the pitch.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and several players ultimately stepped in to separate those involved and restore order. The Argentine players also drew criticism for turning their backs to the field as Spain collected the World Cup trophy, an action interpreted by many as disrespectful.
Paredes Breaks Silence Amidst Investigation
Leandro Paredes has issued his first public statement since the final, reflecting on Argentina’s campaign and expressing gratitude to supporters. In his Instagram post, Paredes stated, “Thank you, Argentina! I love you today and always. Today, I write with a heavy heart, having been unable to bring our country the joy it so richly deserves. But with a chest full of pride for having given everything we had and for flying our flag at the very top once again!”
He further praised his teammates, adding, “Thank you to everyone who was part of this national team. To this group of players who gave their all to represent this jersey, fighting for it until the very last second of every match! It was an honour to be part of the best Argentine national team in history.” However, his statement did not include an apology or any acknowledgment of the post-match confrontation that has become a central focus of the FIFA investigation.
FIFA confirmed on Monday that it has initiated disciplinary proceedings into the incidents. The governing body stated that following an assessment of relevant match reports, and in line with Article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor has been appointed to investigate potential breaches of the code regarding the post-match incidents. FIFA has not provided a timeline for the investigation or identified specific players, but the appointment of a prosecutor suggests the possibility of retrospective sanctions if breaches are established.
Earlier reports indicated that Paredes had been shown a red card after the match. However, this dismissal was later removed from the official record, meaning he did not face immediate punishment on the night of the final. FIFA has confirmed that no disciplinary action was taken at the time. Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez was dismissed during the final after receiving a second yellow card in second-half added time.
Gavi’s Perspective on Potential Suspension
Spain midfielder Gavi has voiced his opinion on the potential suspension of Paredes. Despite being physically involved in the confrontation, Gavi believes that Paredes should not be suspended for his actions. “I don’t think [Paredes] should be suspended,” Gavi told El Partidazo de COPE.
Gavi acknowledged that the incident might not present a positive image, particularly for younger audiences. However, he also suggested that a certain level of physicality and aggression is inherent to football. He further commented, “I understand it’s not a good image for children, but I think there’s also that side to football, which is a bit more physical, more aggressive.”
He concluded by stating, “The most logical thing would have been to send him off during the match, and that’s it. In the end, I think it’s all football, and it has to be that way.” FIFA has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to assess the events and any player or coach involved could receive a suspension, while the Argentine Football Association could also face a fine.
The incident was initially misreported on FIFA’s commentator information system, which stated that Paredes had been sent off by referee Slavko Vincic for pushing Garcia. This red card was subsequently deleted from the system.
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Source: bbc.com
