Lisandro Martinez has now explained why he and his Argentina teammates had their backs turned when Spain’s players lifted the World Cup trophy.
Argentina’s players were heavily criticised for having their backs turned as Spain celebrated becoming world champions for only the second time in their history.
In response, Spain’s Dani Olmo told reporters: "We are an example for many generations, I think they should be too."
Argentina’s players were labelled “classless” for their actions, while former England international Stuart Pearce added: "When Spain were about to lift their trophy, the Argentinians, to a man, all stood with their back to the trophy lift. That probably tells you a great deal, doesn't it?"
Footage emerged showing Flaco Lopez, who made two substitute appearances during the 2026 World Cup, was the only Argentina player to watch as Ballon d’Or contender Rodri hoisted the iconic trophy into the air.
The Palmeiras striker, 25, was subsequently praised for having the decency to watch Spain’s players celebrate becoming world champions - despite how painful it may have been.
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Martinez Explains Why Argentina Players Had Backs Turned
Argentina players turns backs on SpainReuters/Jon Durr
However, Martinez - who was named in FIFA’s 2026 World Cup Team of the Tournament following an impressive campaign - insists Argentina’s players were not snubbing their Spanish counterparts.
“We were always very respectful of the opponent,” the Manchester United star told reporters, per World Soccer Talk. “It was also said that after the final, we hadn’t acknowledged Spain. We greeted all the players, all the coaching staff, we were there.
“And then obviously the image that you see where we are turning our backs is when we our people were singing to us, right? So, it was also a show of respect towards our people, staying there in the moment that we had to stay.“
Martinez was also asked how he feels about Argentina being cast as villains of the 2026 World Cup.
“I have quite a few mixed feelings about it,” he said. “A little bit of anger because clearly they have no basis to generate that hate. Then I also see how my teammates fight on the pitch, how the fans encourage us, how they make us feel at home, and they talk about us being arrogant, about us being this or that… maybe that speaks a bit more about the people who do those things than about us.“
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Argentina received heavy criticism during the tournament for their ‘dirty’ tactics, while FIFA were accused of showing favouritism towards the 2022 world champions.
The criticism intensified after several Argentina players and staff members were involved in altercations following a hugely disappointing team performance against Spain in the World Cup final.
FIFA have launched an investigation into the incidents to determine whether Argentina violated any of their disciplinary code.