Spain midfielder Gavi says Leandro Paredes suspension would not be 'logical' following ugly scenes after 2026 FIFA World Cup final with Argentina

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Spain midfielder Gavi has said Argentina's Leandro Paredes should not be suspended after he confronted opposition players following Sunday's 2026 FIFA World Cup final, which ended in a 1-0 victory for the European side.

Watch: Yamal laughs at Paredes v Gavi ‘Fight of the Year’ poster during Spain celebrations

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Paredes has been widely condemned for his behaviour, after he appeared to push Eric Garcia in the throat before knocking Gavi to the ground.

FIFA are investigating the incident, and the players and coaches involved in the post-match fracas could yet receive a suspension.

But Gavi has suggested Argentina star Paredes should be treated more leniently than might be expected.

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"I don't think [Paredes] should be suspended," the Barcelona youngster told 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. In the end, I think it's all football and it has to be that way."

Argentina players Nahuel Molina and Thiago Almada also appeared to clash with Spain players, while assistant manager Roberto Ayala denied punching Dani Olmo.

"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 told Capital Radio in Valencia.

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

Olmo, meanwhile, said he was unfazed by Argentina's reaction to defeat.

"We don’t care," he told reporters. "What’s important are the values you want to transmit. We are an example for many generations, and I think they should be too. Now, we’re going to enjoy it."

Paredes did not receive a red card, but midfield partner Enzo Fernandez did after fouling Pau Cubarsi and getting a second yellow card with minutes of normal time remaining.

"As time goes by, you realise there is something much bigger than just a result," Fernandez wrote on Instagram.

"For years, this group has represented us in the best possible way. It teaches that competing isn't just about winning; it's about giving your all for the jersey and never giving up.

"It has been a privilege to be part of a group that always stepped up, competed at the highest level, and defended these colours with pride, humility, and commitment."

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