Argentine assistant coach Roberto Ayala issued a public apology on July 22, 2026, for shoving Spanish midfielder Dani Olmo during physical altercations after Argentina's World Cup final loss to Spain.
FIFA has launched an official investigation into the incidents.
The post-match fallout escalated after several Argentine players engaged in physical confrontations on the pitch.
World football's governing body is now reviewing the discipline of multiple team members and coaching staff.
During a broadcast interview with Valencia Capital Radio, Ayala expressed remorse over his involvement in the altercation with the Spanish international player.
"Of course I regret it," said Ayala.
"Given my position, I cannot let my feelings, or whatever I receive from the opponent, determine my actions.
It was more of a push, and not a punch as some make it out to be. If I see Olmo, I will apologize to him personally."
Tensions on the field spiked further when midfielder Leandro Paredes grabbed Spain's Eric García by the throat and subsequently wrestled Gavi to the ground in front of assistant coach Walter Samuel.
Addressing the physical altercation during a Spanish radio broadcast, Gavi stated that he did not believe disciplinary actions should be taken against the opposition player.
"I understand that it's not a good image for children, but I think there is also a side to football that is a bit more physical and aggressive," said Gavi.
"The most logical thing would have been to send him off during the match and be done with it.
In the end, it's just football and that's how it should be."
Spanish midfielder Dani Olmo criticized the conduct displayed on the pitch by the losing team.
"It is important what values you project. We are an example for many generations and many children," said Olmo.
Defending the squad's post-match conduct, Argentine media outlet TyC Sports reported that the players turned away from Spain's trophy ceremony solely to acknowledge their primary fan section situated adjacent to the podium, rather than out of disrespect.
Argentine supporters have also launched an online petition on change. org demanding a rematch of the final, amassing nearly 70,000 signatures by late Wednesday evening.
