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Spain’s midfield star Gavi has urged FIFA to show understanding towards Argentina’s players following the heated scuffle that overshadowed the end of the 2026 World Cup final. Despite being aggressively grabbed by Leandro Paredes during the chaotic post-match incident, the Barcelona youngster insisted that such moments reflect the passionate and intense nature of football.

Gavi calls for calm after the New Jersey confrontation

Gavi has stepped in to ease tensions between Spain and Argentina in the aftermath of their fiery World Cup final encounter. The 21-year-old was directly involved in the physical fracas at New Jersey, where Paredes confronted him during a large-scale brawl that broke out after the final whistle.

Speaking at a celebratory event in his hometown of Los Palacios y Villafranca, where he was honoured alongside Paris Saint-Germain’s Fabian Ruiz, Gavi shared his thoughts on the possibility of FIFA sanctions against the Argentine players. “No, honestly, I don’t think they should be suspended,” he said, as reported by Marca. “I understand it’s not a good example for children, but there’s also a more violent side to football. Maybe the best decision would have been to send them off during the match, but in the end, it’s all part of football, and that’s how it is.”

Paredes faces scrutiny for his aggressive actions

The spotlight has fallen heavily on Boca Juniors midfielder Leandro Paredes for his role in the confrontation. He was seen striking Eric Garcia in the throat before forcefully throwing Gavi to the ground. The uproar began moments after the final whistle when Nahuel Molina clashed with Rodri, sparking a chaotic sequence that prompted Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni to step in and calm his players.

Despite growing criticism from fans and pundits, Paredes has remained unapologetic. In a recent social media post, he focused solely on commending his teammates and expressing pride in representing Argentina, without addressing or acknowledging the controversy surrounding his behaviour.

Yamal adds humour to the celebrations

While Gavi adopted a diplomatic tone at his hometown event, his teammate Lamine Yamal took a more playful approach during Spain’s victory parade in Madrid. The teenage prodigy was seen laughing and holding up a supporter’s sign that humorously compared the Spain-Argentina confrontation to a celebrity boxing match. The sign, referencing the popular “Velada del Año” event, left the 19-year-old amused as he joined in the celebrations of Spain’s first World Cup triumph since 2010.

A hero’s welcome in Los Palacios

Back in Los Palacios y Villafranca, the festivities centred on the local heroes who played pivotal roles in Spain’s global victory. Both Gavi and Fabian were honoured in the town’s traditional way—receiving their body weight in tomatoes, with Gavi getting 68.5 kilograms and Fabian 84.5 kilograms. The local council announced future plans to rename community football grounds after the duo and to build a monument in their honour alongside Spanish legend Jesus Navas, who also attended the celebration. The event highlighted the community’s pride and affection for their homegrown champions, away from the intensity of the international stage.