Spain's Dani Olmo accuses Argentina coach of lying after World Cup final scuffle
Translated from Finnish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Spanish national team player Dani Olmo accuses Argentinian assistant coach Roberto Ayala of lying about an incident after the World Cup final.
- Ayala reportedly grabbed Olmo by the neck during post-match celebrations, later claiming he reacted to something Olmo said.
- Olmo denies saying anything to provoke Ayala and states he does not need an apology, emphasizing the role of players and coaches as role models.
Spanish national team player Dani Olmo has accused Argentinian assistant coach Roberto Ayala of lying about an incident that occurred after the World Cup final. The match concluded with Spain's victory but was marred by chaotic events, including a physical altercation between players and staff.
During the scuffle, Ayala reportedly grabbed Olmo by the neck. Ayala later apologized, stating he reacted to something Olmo said. However, Olmo has refuted this claim in an interview with Catalan newspaper Diari de Terrassa. "If someone claims to be sorry but justifies a hit by saying it was a response to something I said, they are probably not truly sorry," Olmo stated.
If someone claims to be sorry but justifies a hit by saying it was a response to something I said, they are probably not truly sorry.
Olmo firmly denies saying anything to Ayala that would warrant such a reaction. "He is lying because I didn't say anything to him. That's why I don't need his apology," the Spanish player asserted. He also highlighted the importance of players and coaches recognizing their role as role models, emphasizing that true character is shown not by making mistakes, but by admitting them with humility, honesty, and dignity.
The International Football Federation (FIFA) announced it had launched an investigation into the actions of Argentinian players and coaching staff following the final whistle.
He is lying because I didn't say anything to him. That's why I don't need his apology.
Originally published by Helsingin Sanomat in Finnish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.