Spain’s World Cup winner Gavi says he does not want Argentina players suspended after he was attacked

Spain midfielder, Gavi, has leapt to the defence of Leandro Paredes after he was attacked by the Argentina midfielder following the World Cup final.

Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time to lift their second World Cup title, but the celebrations were overshadowed by an ugly confrontation involving players from both sides following the final whistle.

Barcelona star Gavi was among those caught up in the clash after he was shoved by Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes during the heated exchanges.

Paredes first grabbed Eric Garcia by the throat during the fracas. Gavi then ran towards them and hit Parades from behind. Reacting, Parades push Gavi to the ground by putting his hand in the Spaniard’s face.

Nahuel Molina also “thumped” Rodri as he was running by to celebrate Spain’s triumph, while Thiago Almada was involved, too.

FIFA have since launched an investigation into their behaviour, which could have serious consequences for the players involved.

However, during Spain’s celebrations back home, Gavi was asked for his take on the chaos and left many surprised as he called for leniency towards Argentina’s stars.

‘No, to tell you the truth, I don’t think he (Leandro Paredes) should be suspended,’ he told Spanish radio station El Partidazo de COPE.

‘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.’