Gavi Breaks Silence On Leandro Paredes’ Post-FIFA World Cup Final Actions

Published 22 July 2026 · sports

Gavi Breaks Silence On Leandro Paredes’ Post-FIFA World Cup Final Actions Published By, Last Updated: July 22, 2026, 12:49 IST Gavi on Argentina's post-FIFA World

Gavi Breaks Silence On Leandro Paredes’ Post-FIFA World Cup Final Actions Published By, Last Updated: July 22, 2026, 12:49 IST Gavi on Argentina's post-FIFA World Cup final actions: "Football has always had a more aggressive and intense side." No suspensions, cards are enough. Rapid Read Gavi falls as he scuffles with Argentina's Leandro Paredes (5) and Thiago Almada (Picture credit: AP) Star Barcelona and Spanish midfielder Gavi has said that although Argentina footballers’ actions after the FIFA World Cup final do not set the best example for children, football has always been an aggressive sport and only the cards would be enough for such violations, not suspensions. Tempers flared after the final whistle as Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes sparked a mass confrontation by grabbing Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat, with the ensuing melee resulting in Gavi being knocked to the ground.

But Gavi was unexpectedly mellow about the situation, having won the FIFA World Cup title three days back. “Should the Argentine players be punished for what happened post-match? I don’t think they should be suspended. I understand it does not set the best example for children, but football has always had a more aggressive and intense side," Gavi was quoted as saying by the Barca Times. “For me, the red cards during the match were enough and that should have been the end of it," Gavi added. Enzo Fernandez was the only footballer sent off during the game, amidst speculation that Paredes had also been shown a red card after the final whistle.

But FIFA confirmed that no footballer was booked or dismissed after the match, adding that it’s awaiting the referee’s full match report. Rodri’s celebrations near Nahuel Molina after the final whistle sparked a heated exchange, with the Argentina defender appearing to throw a punch at the Spain midfielder’s midriff. The pair were separated as Garcia and multiple other footballers stepped in to defuse the situation. As Garcia stepped in to break up the altercation, Paredes charged toward the Spain defender, believing he was confronting one of his teammates. The Argentina midfielder shoved Garcia before sending Gavi to the ground, as footballers from both teams rushed in to separate those involved and restore order.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit First Published: July 22, 2026, 12:43 IST News sports football Gavi Breaks Silence On Leandro Paredes’ Post-FIFA World Cup Final Actions Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...