Spain midfielder Gavi has expressed that he does not believe Argentina‘s Leandro Paredes should face suspension following the altercation that occurred at the end of Sunday’s World Cup final.

Paredes was involved in the brawl alongside team-mate Nahuel Molina and Argentina coach Roberto Ayala just seconds after the final whistle blew, marking Spain’s 1-0 victory at the MetLife Stadium.

Advertisement

Fifa confirmed that no red card was issued to Paredes during the match. However, on Monday evening, Fifa announced the appointment of a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate potential violations of the Fifa disciplinary code stemming from the incident.

In an interview with El Partidazo de COPE, Gavi stated: “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 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.”

Paredes reportedly grabbed Eric Garcia by the throat before throwing Gavi to the ground. Molina also appeared to strike Spain captain Rodri, which initially sparked the melee, while Ayala appeared to punch Dani Olmo in the face.

Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez received a red card during second-half injury time for a wild challenge on Pau Cubarsi.

PA