Spain midfielder Gavi has called for Leandro Paredes to avoid further punishment following the explosive scenes that marred the World Cup final, despite being one of the players caught up in the confrontation with the Argentina midfielder.
The Barcelona star was pushed to the ground during a series of heated post-match altercations after Spain’s 1-0 victory denied Argentina back-to-back World Cup triumphs.
Paredes was at the centre of the controversy after appearing to grab Eric Garcia by the throat before placing a hand in Gavi’s face, sending the Spanish midfielder tumbling during the ugly exchanges.
The flashpoints have since prompted FIFA to launch an investigation into Argentina’s conduct, with several players potentially facing disciplinary action.
However, speaking after Spain’s World Cup celebrations, Gavi insisted he does not believe Paredes should receive a 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.
Spain midfielder Gavi has called for Leandro Paredes to avoid further punishment following the explosive scenes that marred the World Cup final, despite being one of the players caught up in the confrontation with the Argentina midfielder
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“In the end, I think it’s all football, and it has to be that way.”
Gavi’s comments have raised eyebrows given he was directly involved in the confrontation as tempers boiled over after the final whistle.
The incidents came at the end of a fiercely contested encounter in which Argentina’s frustrations became increasingly evident as Spain closed in on the trophy.
Enzo Fernandez had already been dismissed late in the match after a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsi, while Paredes escaped a second yellow card despite committing several fouls during the game.
Leandro Paredes has caused fury with his behaviour at the end of Spain’s World Cup triumph
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The post-match disorder escalated further as Nahuel Molina appeared to strike Rodri while Spain’s players celebrated, with Thiago Almada also becoming involved in the melee.
Paredes also appeared to throw punches during the confrontation, while Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was seen grabbing Eric Garcia around the throat before making contact with Dani Olmo.
Argentina’s players then turned their backs as Spain lifted the World Cup trophy, a gesture widely criticised by supporters and pundits alike.
The behaviour has since come under formal scrutiny from FIFA, which is investigating the events that unfolded after the final whistle.
Criticism of Argentina’s conduct has been widespread.
Former England defender Micah Richards described the scenes as “embarrassing” while working as a BBC Sport pundit.
“It’s embarrassing. 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,” he said.
“Paredes is better than that. We all know what it’s like to lose a game but this is not good enough.”
Gavi kisses the World Cup trophy following Spain’s win over Argentina
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Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart was equally critical.
“Disgusting behaviour. There was one man on that pitch with class and that was Lionel Messi,” he said.
Wayne Rooney also condemned the scenes, insisting Argentina had reacted poorly to defeat.
“It doesn’t surprise me. We’ve seen this from Argentina before,” he stated.
“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. Enzo Fernandez has got what he deserves.”
Argentina also remain under investigation over events following their World Cup semi-final victory against England, when several players displayed a banner promoting their country’s claim over the Falkland Islands bearing the words: “Las Malvinas Son Argentinas.”
