Spain midfielder Gavi believes Argentina's Leandro Paredes should not be suspended for his role in the heated confrontation that followed Spain's 1-0 victory in the FIFA World Cup final.
Paredes, along with Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala, was involved in the post-match altercation after the final whistle. The Argentina midfielder was seen pushing Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat before clashing with Gavi, who was knocked to the ground by Almada and later shoved in the face by Paredes.
FIFA has since appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate the incident, with those involved potentially facing suspensions or fines.
Despite the controversy, Gavi insists Paredes should avoid further punishment.
"I don't think he should be suspended," Gavi told El Partidazo de COPE.
"It wasn't a good image for children, but football also has a physical and emotional side. The most appropriate decision would have been to send him off during the match. Beyond that, it's part of football."
