As FIFA conducts an investigation into Argentina’s behavior after the World Cup final, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has labeled the incidents as “intolerable and unacceptable.”
FIFA requested its disciplinary prosecutor to examine controversial on-field events following Spain’s 1-0 victory in extra time against the former champion on Sunday.
During the match, Argentina’s midfielder Leandro Paredes engaged physically with Spanish players Eric Garcia and Gavi, while Spain captain Rodri received a blow to the stomach from Argentina defender Nahuel Molina as he ran past.
De la Fuente expressed to Spanish public broadcaster TVE on Thursday, “It cannot be allowed,” noting he hadn’t witnessed the incidents when “celebrating with other people.”
He further remarked, “In any case, I find it intolerable and unacceptable from players of that caliber, whom I had been praising in the days before and who have a magnificent coach.”
There is no detailed information provided by FIFA regarding the scope of the investigation or whether witness statements from Spain players and staff might be included.
Argentina’s assistant coach, Roberto Ayala, issued an apology on Wednesday for his altercation with Dani Olmo, describing his actions as a shove rather than a punch.
Spain’s Response and Behavior Acknowledgment
De la Fuente commended his players during the TVE interview for their composure at MetLife Stadium despite aggression and provocation, stating, “I want to highlight our behavior in the face of that kind of aggression and provocation. Our players always kept their composure and behaved like true professionals.”
The Spain squad demonstrated sportsmanship by forming a guard of honor for Argentina players proceeding to collect their medals from U.S. President Donald Trump. However, when Rodri raised the trophy, several Argentina players notably turned away from the ceremonial scene.
FIFA’s Disciplinary Measures
FIFA’s disciplinary regulations permit a special prosecutor to request the initiation of proceedings and propose sanctions on associations, clubs, and individuals.
No specific timeline for the disciplinary action has been provided by FIFA, leaving uncertainty regarding when potential sanctions could be imposed since Argentina lacks scheduled competitive games in the near future.
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