Don't suspend Paredes for World Cup final fracas, says Spain midfielder Gavi
Madrid, July 22
Spain midfielder Gavi said on Wednesday that he did not believe Argentina's Leandro Paredes should be banned for his role in the incidents that followed Spain's 1-0 victory over Argentina in Sunday's World Cup final.
As Spain's players began celebrating after the final whistle, Argentina defender Nahuel Molina swung a punch at Spain captain Rodrigo Hernandez, while Paredes, Thiago Almada and Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala also became involved.
Paredes appeared to grab Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat before putting his hand in Gavi's face and pushing him over as the FC Barcelona player attempted to intervene.
FIFA has begun investigating the incidents, but speaking to Spanish radio station Cadena Copa, Gavi said he did not want Paredes to be suspended.
"I don't think [Paredes] should be suspended," said the midfielder, adding that "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."
"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."
Former Valencia defender Ayala has since apologised for his actions during an interview with a Valencia-based radio station.
"Obviously I am sorry; I can't allow a feeling to change the way that I behave, but I think these are things that should remain out on the pitch," he commented.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup final ended in ugly scenes as the summit clash descended into chaos immediately after the final whistle, with players exchanging punches and Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes grabbing Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat.
Spain secured their second World Cup title with a tense 1-0 victory in extra time, but the historic win was quickly overshadowed by physical altercations on the pitch, leading to post-match turmoil.
Argentina defender Nahuel Molina appeared to punch one of the Spanish players in the stomach. In another altercation, midfielder Paredes was seen shoving Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat as Scaloni intervened.
Beyond the clash with Garcia, Paredes tackled Gavi to the ground, shoved him in the face, and seemed to kick a boot toward the 21-year-old Barcelona midfielder. At the same time, Molina appeared to swing a punch at Rodri, causing the Spanish captain to stop and angrily confront the Argentine defender.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I get Gavi's sentiment - he's a true sportsperson who doesn't want to ruin a fellow player's career over one moment of madness. But FIFA needs to set an example. You can't have players throwing punches and choking opponents in a World Cup final, of all matches! What message does that send to young footballers watching at home? 🙄
Honestly, I'm with Gavi on this one. Football has always had this raw, emotional side. Remember Zidane headbutting Materazzi in the 2006 final? No one banned him for life. Fine them heavily, yes. But a suspension for Paredes? Too harsh. Let the rivalry stay on the pitch and move on.
Gavi is right about one thing: the referee should have sent Paredes off during the match. That would have settled it then and there. Now FIFA is doing this whole circus investigation. Just give him a 3-match ban and be done with it. Argentina's assistant coach Ayala apologised, so that's something at least.
I'm shocked Gavi is being so forgiving. I watched the footage - Paredes literally shoved him to the ground and kicked a boot at him! That's not "a bit more physical", that's going overboard. But I also understand that Gavi is young and doesn't want bad blood. Classy but concerning. 🤔
Typical South American vs European football rivalry boiling over. As an Indian football fan, I find this both entertaining and worrying. Gavi is a legend for taking the high
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