Gavi doesn’t want Leandro Paredes to be punished despite World Cup final fight

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Following their humiliating and one-sided loss against Spain in the 2026 World Cup final at the New York/New Jersey Stadium, Argentina’s Leandro Paredes was spotted getting violent and aggressive during Spain’s post-match celebration.

Argentina players and staff were not happy with the game’s result, and their feelings were visible in their on-pitch actions. Nicolas Otamendi got into a heated confrontation with Spain’s captain Rodri, while an Argentine coach struck Dani Olmo and Paredes, and a teammate threw substitute player Gavi to the ground. While FIFA has now opened an investigation into the incident, Gavi has shared his thoughts on Paredes’s action.

Speaking after the game, Gavi explained that while the Argentina team’s actions were not appropriate for the younger players, he believed that the players should not get punished for that.

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“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.” (Quotes translated via Spanish outlet SER)

While many believed that Paredes was given a red card and sent off for his actions, such was not the case. Later, the Boca Juniors player shared a statement on his social media and addressed his nation’s World Cup run.

“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!” he wrote.

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