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Spanish star Gavi opposes calls to ban Argentina’s Paredes after chaotic World Cup final
23rd July, 2026 07:07 AM
Spain midfielder Gavi has urged FIFA not to hand Argentina’s Leandro Paredes a suspension following the heated scenes that erupted after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the FIFA World Cup final on Sunday, July 19, 2026.
Tempers flared immediately after the final whistle as Spain celebrated lifting the trophy. Argentina defender Nahuel Molina allegedly threw a punch at Spain captain Rodrigo Hernandez, while Paredes, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala were also caught up in the confrontation.
During the incident, Paredes was seen grabbing Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat before placing his hand on Gavi’s face and shoving the Barcelona midfielder as he tried to calm the situation.
FIFA has launched an investigation into the post-match clash, but Gavi insisted he does not believe the Argentine midfielder deserves further punishment.
“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.”
He added:
“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.”
Meanwhile, former Valencia defender and Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala has expressed regret over his involvement in the incident. Speaking to a Valencia-based radio station, he admitted:
“Obviously I am sorry; I can’t allow that a feeling changes the way that I behave, but I think these are things that should remain out on the pitch.”
Messi thankful
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi has shared an emotional message after Argentina lost to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
The Argentina captain thanked people for their support following the match and also congratulated Spain on winning the tournament.
In a statement on Monday, July 20, 2026, Messi said the tournament once again brought Argentinians together. He explained that despite the result, he was proud of how the country united behind the national team. He expressed his appreciation to everyone who sent him messages.
“The pain is so great, and it’s going to be hard for me to close this wound. But I’ll keep all the good stuff too. With the matches we turned leaving everything, and that will remain forever in the memory, with the support of an entire country that, together with the work and effort of this group led us to be, once again, among the best in the world,” Messi’s statement read in part.
“Thank you very much from the heart for every greeting and for every message. Once again we managed to unite as a country and be all together, sharing the immense pride of being Argentinian,” Messi added.
