"When the match ended, I saw a scuffle in the middle of the pitch, and I went over to stop it from escalating, because that's not who we are," Ayala said.
"I take responsibility for what I did. My intention was simply to go and separate them, nothing more."
Ayala further clarified the nature of the physical exchange while expressing regret over his reaction on the pitch.
"It was more of a push than anything else; it wasn't a punch.
It was a reaction to something that was said, but if I see Olmo, I'll apologise to him in person," Ayala said.
Addressing the broader environment surrounding the squad throughout the tournament in North America, Ayala noted external pressure on the roster.
"They didn't want our team to do well. We play for our people.
In my position, I can't allow feelings to change my actions. I'm sorry," Ayala said.
Speaking separately to Valencia Capital Radio, Ayala reiterated his regret over failing to maintain composure during the heated moments following the defeat.
"I regret it.
Because of the position I hold, I cannot allow my emotions, or whatever I may receive from the other party, to change my mood and control my actions.
That is why I regret it," Ayala said.
Ayala maintained that his primary objective on the field was de-escalation rather than confrontation.
"For me, we should put an end to it and leave it there.
It was just a shove more than anything else, it was not a punch as some are trying to portray it," Ayala said.
