Spain star Gavi has surprisingly defended Leandro Paredes, an Argentina player involved in a post-World Cup final clash with him, urging FIFA not to ban the midfielder.
The World Cup final saw tensions escalate after Spain's victory, with several Argentina players engaging in aggressive behavior towards their Spanish counterparts. Amidst these incidents, Paredes notably grabbed Eric Garcia by the throat and pushed Gavi to the ground. Other altercations involved Nahuel Molina and Thiago Almada.
FIFA has since launched an investigation into the conduct of the Argentina players following the match. However, during Spain's celebrations, Gavi expressed his view that Paredes should not face 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. In the end, I think it's all football, and it has to be that way."
Paredes was fortunate not to be sent off during the match, having already received a yellow card, and his involvement in the post-match scuffles did not result in dismissal. Despite Gavi's call for leniency, Argentina's actions have drawn widespread condemnation from football pundits.
Micah Richards described the behavior as "embarrassing," while Joe Hart called it "disgusting" and noted Lionel Messi as the only player with class on the pitch. Former player Wayne Rooney commented that such reactions are unsurprising from Argentina, urging for grace in defeat.
Argentina's players also face scrutiny for displaying a banner asserting their claim to the Falkland Islands following their semi-final win over England, an action that has drawn further attention from FIFA.