Spain international Gavi has surprisingly defended Argentina's Leandro Paredes, despite being involved in a physical clash with the midfielder following the World Cup final. FIFA has launched an investigation into the conduct of Argentina players after the match, which Spain won 1-0.
During the tense final, which saw Enzo Fernandez of Argentina sent off, Paredes grabbed Eric Garcia by the throat and pushed Gavi to the ground. Nahuel Molina also made contact with Rodri, while Thiago Almada was also involved in altercations. Argentina's assistant coach, Roberto Ayala, reportedly held Garcia by the throat before striking Dani Olmo.
Despite the widespread condemnation of Argentina's actions, including from former players like Micah Richards, Joe Hart, and Wayne Rooney, Gavi urged leniency for Paredes. "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."
He added, "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 not sent off during the game despite committing several fouls while already on a yellow card. FIFA's investigation will consider the post-match incidents, as well as reports of Argentina players displaying a controversial banner claiming the Falkland Islands after their semi-final victory over England.
Pundits widely criticized the behavior. "It's embarrassing," said Micah Richards. "They were on the cusp every single time. Seeing that sort of stuff after the game was played, it's not good, it's embarrassing to be honest." Joe Hart described the actions as "disgusting behaviour," noting that "There was one man on that pitch with class and that was Lionel Messi." Wayne Rooney stated, "It doesn't surprise me. We've seen this from Argentina before. It's just sad, very poor from them. If you lose a game of football, be graceful. It's a reaction to them being outplayed."
