SerpApi.Org
World Cup winner Gavi has taken the moral high ground after being thrown to the floor by Leandro Paredes, requesting that FIFA refrain from sanctioning the Argentina midfielder for his behavior.
Spain stars Gavi and Eric Garcia were both caught up in a physical confrontation with Paredes following the World Cup final, as the Argentina midfielder seized one by the throat before taking the other down. No card was issued to Paredes after the final whistle, though FIFA has launched an investigation.
Paredes has since returned to Argentina and resumed training with Boca Juniors, refusing to apologize for his conduct despite facing significant backlash. Gavi, who featured in the Spain side that defeated Argentina 1-0 to claim the World Cup, is keen to put the incident behind him, as per The Mirror US.
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Spain required extra time to overcome Argentina in the World Cup final, with Ferran Torres emerging as the match-winner in the 106th minute. Spain largely controlled proceedings, with Argentina failing to register its first shot until the 115th minute, as goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez delivered an outstanding display.
Argentina adopted an aggressive, physical approach in an attempt to unsettle Spain, and after entering the field as a substitute at halftime, Paredes was booked in the 52nd minute. He was fortunate to remain on the pitch until the final whistle, before losing his composure with Gavi and Garcia.
Paredes has encountered criticism for his conduct following the final whistle, and he faces potential suspension from FIFA. Nevertheless, Gavi has urged leniency for his World Cup opponent, expressing a desire to move forward.
"I don't think they should be sanctioned," Gavi said. "I understand it's not a good image for children, but that's part of football. Perhaps the most logical thing would have been to send him off during the match."
While Gavi opposes any disciplinary measures, former Liverpool and Germany midfielder Dietmar Hamman took a different stance. Not only did he advocate for Paredes to receive a substantial ban, but he also proposed that additional Argentine players face punishment.
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"I would suspend them both for a year and then let them decide if they want to return. But this kind of behavior is unacceptable," he said.
"This must be punished, and they shouldn't be too lenient. I would suspend them both for twelve months. They have destroyed much of the goodwill they had gained, largely thanks to Messi, of course."
Despite the controversy, Paredes has resumed training without apparent concern and has spoken out on social media, acknowledging Argentina supporters while sidestepping the post-match incident. "Thank you, Argentina! I love you today and always," he wrote.
"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! Thank you to everyone who was part of this national team.
"To this group of players who gave their all to represent this jersey, fighting for it until the very last second of every match! It was an honor to be part of the best Argentine national team in history."
