Spain's Gavi urges FIFA not to suspend Argentina's Leandro Paredes for World Cup final brawl

FIFA has launched an investigation into the melee that erupted after Spain's 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina at MetLife Stadium, appointing a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to assess the incidents. Players and coaches found responsible could face suspensions, while the Argentine Football Association could also be fined.

Gavi, who was an unused substitute in the final, became involved after stepping in to defend teammate Eric Garcia. Television footage showed Paredes grabbing Garcia by the throat before Gavi intervened, with the Argentina midfielder then pushing him to the ground by his face. Thiago Almada also appeared to force Gavi to the turf during the confrontation.

Additional footage showed Paredes and Nahuel Molina striking Spain's Garcia and Rodri, while Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala appeared to hit Dani Olmo as players and staff from both sides became embroiled in the scuffle.

Despite being on the receiving end of the incident, Gavi believes any punishment should have been dealt with during the match rather than retrospectively.

"I don't think they should be suspended," Gavi said.

"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 and it has to be that way."

Confusion initially surrounded Paredes' disciplinary record after FIFA's commentator information system incorrectly stated he had been sent off for the altercation with Garcia. The red card was later removed, with FIFA confirming no action had been taken against him during the match. Argentina's only dismissal remained Enzo Fernandez's second yellow card in stoppage time.

Ayala has since accepted responsibility for his actions, insisting he had tried to prevent the confrontation from escalating.

"When the match ended, I saw a scuffle in the middle of the pitch and I went over to stop it from escalating, because that's not who we are," Ayala said.

"I take responsibility for what I did. My intention was simply to go and separate them, nothing more."

The ill-tempered finale extended beyond the physical clashes. Spain formed a guard of honour as Argentina collected their runners-up medals, but Lionel Messi and his teammates did not return the gesture, instead turning their backs as Spain lifted the World Cup trophy.

Spain winger Dani Olmo criticised that response, saying: "What matters are the values you want to convey. We're a role model for many generations, and I think they should be, too."

Paredes, meanwhile, has not publicly addressed the incidents, instead using social media to praise Argentina's tournament campaign without apologising for the confrontation.

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