Paredes should not be suspended, says Spain's Gavi

Spain's Gavi believes Argentina's Leandro Paredes should not face suspension for his role in the post-World Cup final confrontation. The midfielder, who was himself involved in a scuffle with Paredes, argued that while the incident presented a poor image, such physicality is inherent to football.

"I don’t think Paredes should be suspended," Gavi 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." He suggested that the most appropriate action would have been a red card during the match itself, concluding that "it's all football, and it has to be that way."

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I don’t think Paredes should be suspended. 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 confrontation occurred as Argentina players and staff engaged with Spain's team following Argentina's victory. Paredes appeared to push Spain's Eric Garcia and later pushed Gavi, forcing the young midfielder to the ground. FIFA has appointed a disciplinary prosecutor to review the events, with potential sanctions including suspensions for players and coaches, and fines for the Argentine Football Association.

Notably, FIFA confirmed that no disciplinary action was taken against Paredes during the match. An initial report on FIFA's system incorrectly listed Paredes as having been sent off, but this was later deleted. Argentina's Enzo Fernandez was the only player dismissed during the final, receiving a second yellow card.

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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.