Spain's Gavi has spoken out after chaotic scenes following the 2026 World Cup final saw him physically involved with Argentina star Leandro Paredes.
The Barcelona ace was an unused substitute as Ferran Torres smashed in a 106th-minute winner for La Roja to add a second star to their badge. Argentina players and staff weren't particularly happy at the full-time whistle, as several incidents threatened to overshadow Spain's success on the pitch.
Nicolas Otamendi confronted Rodri, an Argentine coach struck Dani Olmo and Paredes and a teammate threw Gavi to the ground. FIFA have opened an investigation into the chaos that followed the final.
Gavi on Potential Punishment For Argentina's Paredes
Argentina's Leandro Paredes clashes with Spain's Gavi after the matchREUTERS/Amanda Perobelli
There have been calls for punishments across the board for Argentina. Several players and coaches will be nervously waiting to find out what the governing body decides to do. Some have called for the South Americans to be banned from the next World Cup over their actions.
A more likely scenario could see several players handed individual punishment, whether it be a suspension or a fine. However, Gavi doesn't believe Paredes deserves to be banned, despite being physically assaulted by the 32-year-old.
Argentina Related
Every World Cup Nation Ranked Best to Worst by ‘Fair Play’ Record - England 7th Worst
The final 'Fair Play' table has been calculated, with Argentina, England, and the USA among the worst-behaved nations.
Speaking after the game, the Spain No.9 claimed the post-match scenes weren't appropriate for young viewers, but stated the Argentina players should escape sanctions (as translated by Spanish outlet SER):
"I don't think they should be sanctioned. I understand it's not a good image for the younger players, but football also has that violent side. Perhaps the most logical thing would be to send him off during the match. In the end, it's all football."
Paredes Ignored Fallout in World Cup Final Statement
Argentina's Leandro Paredes clashes with Spain's Gavi next to assistant coach Walter SamuelReuters/James Lang
It was initially reported and believed that Paredes was sent off during the incident. However, FIFA later confirmed that this was incorrect and the Boca Juniors man saw his red card 'deleted' from the record.
Paredes has since posted a statement on social media, where he thanked his nation's supporters. But he failed to mention what happened after the match.
He wrote: "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!
"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."