Final Assault Victim.. Surprising Statement from Gavi on Punishing Argentina's Players

FBL-WC-2026-MATCH104-ESP-ARG-FINAL

The Spanish midfielder plays down the controversy surrounding the events after the World Cup final.

Gavi has played down the controversy surrounding the events that followed the World Cup final against Argentina. The Spain midfielder sees no need to punish the Argentina players with suspensions, despite the clashes that broke out in the final.

Speaking at a tribute ceremony held for him and his team-mate Fabian Ruiz in their hometown of Los Palacios y Villafranca, the Barcelona star addressed the issue just days after being crowned world champion with Spain.

Gavi found himself at the centre of the altercation that erupted after the final whistle at the New York stadium. He stepped in to defend one of his team-mates, only for Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes to push him to the ground.

Even so, the Spain international refused to call for additional sanctions against the Argentina players, saying: "If I'm honest, I don't think they should be suspended."

He added, in comments published by the Spanish newspaper "Marca" today, Tuesday: "I understand that what happened does not present a good image for children, but football also involves a side of friction and violence. For me, it was normal for the player to be sent off during the match, but in the end I see these things as part of football."

FIFA had earlier today announced the opening of an investigation into possible disciplinary breaches by the Argentina national team, following their defeat to Spain in the World Cup final.

Several Argentina players and members of the coaching staff face strict sanctions if found guilty. The Argentine Football Association also risks another fine.

FIFA said in an official statement: "Following an evaluation of the relevant match reports concerning the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in line with Article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the Disciplinary Committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the code in relation to the post-match events. Further details will be communicated by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee once the prosecutor's report is completed."

He broke down in tears again.. A frank admission from Scaloni regarding the World Cup final