Spain midfielder Gavi has said Argentina player Leandro Paredes should not be suspended for his actions in the aftermath of the 2026 World Cup final.
The final took place last Sunday in New York/New Jersey. Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win the title. Paredes grabbed Eric Garcia by the throat and pushed Gavi during post-match scenes.
Gavi told El Partidazo de COPE that he does not want Paredes banned. “I don’t think [Paredes] should be suspended,” he said. He added that football includes a physical side and that the referee should have acted during the match if needed.
FIFA plans to investigate the incident. No red card was issued to Paredes on the field, and an initial report of a dismissal was later corrected. Paredes is scheduled to play for Boca Juniors on Thursday against O’Higgins in the Copa Sudamericana.
