Gavi urges leniency for Paredes after World Cup final chaos
Spain midfielder Gavi has called for Leandro Paredes to avoid further punishment following the explosive scenes that marred the World Cup final, despite being one of the players caught up in the confrontation with the Argentina midfielder, reports BritPanorama.
The Barcelona star was pushed to the ground during a series of heated post-match altercations after Spain’s 1-0 victory denied Argentina back-to-back World Cup triumphs.
Paredes was at the centre of the controversy after appearing to grab Eric Garcia by the throat before placing a hand in Gavi’s face, sending the Spanish midfielder tumbling during the ugly exchanges. The flashpoints have since prompted FIFA to launch an investigation into Argentina’s conduct, with several players potentially facing disciplinary action.
However, speaking after Spain’s World Cup celebrations, Gavi insisted he does not believe Paredes should receive a suspension. “No, to tell you the truth, I don’t think he (Leandro Paredes) should be suspended,” Gavi told Spanish radio station El Partidazo de COPE. “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,” he added.
Gavi’s comments have raised eyebrows given he was directly involved in the confrontation as tempers boiled over after the final whistle. The incidents came at the end of a fiercely contested encounter in which Argentina’s frustrations became increasingly evident as Spain closed in on the trophy. Enzo Fernandez had already been dismissed late in the match after a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsi, while Paredes escaped a second yellow card despite committing several fouls during the game.
The post-match disorder escalated further as Nahuel Molina appeared to strike Rodri while Spain’s players celebrated, with Thiago Almada also becoming involved in the melee. Paredes also appeared to throw punches during the confrontation, while Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was seen grabbing Eric Garcia around the throat before making contact with Dani Olmo.
Criticism of Argentina’s conduct has been widespread. Former England defender Micah Richards described the scenes as “embarrassing,” stating, “Seeing that sort of stuff after the game was played, it’s not good.” Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart labelled the behaviour “disgusting,” expressing disappointment that only Lionel Messi displayed class during the encounter. Wayne Rooney also condemned the scenes, insisting Argentina had reacted poorly to defeat, emphasizing a need for grace in loss.
As FIFA continues its investigation, the fallout from the World Cup final raises questions about sportsmanship and decorum in the heat of competition. Such incidents serve as pointed reminders of how the passion for football can spiral into chaos when the stakes are highest.
