Spain: when Gavi comes to Leandro Paredes' defense

At the final whistle of the 2026 World Cup final, lost to Spain (0-1, a.e.t.), Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was involved in a clash with Eric Garcia and Gavi.

While FIFA quickly opened disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine, the Barcelona midfielder stepped in to defend him. "Should he be punished? No, no. I'm telling you the truth: I don't think they (Paredes and Nahuel Molina, editor's note) should be suspended. I understand it's not a good example for young people or children, but I also believe there's a side of football that is a bit more combative. Maybe the most logical thing would have been to send the player off during the match and leave it at that. But as I said, it's part of football, that's just how it is," the Spaniard told the press.

A sanction looming for Leandro Paredes?

With disciplinary proceedings launched just hours after the final, Argentina international Leandro Paredes is facing a major risk. On top of losing the title to La Roja, he could be hit with a severe sanction from FIFA, the governing body of the world tournament. For now, no one knows what form this possible punishment could take.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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