Argentina suffered a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat against Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium.
The defending champions failed to score during normal time before Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card in stoppage time.
Spain eventually took advantage in extra time when substitute Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in the 106th minute.
However, ugly scenes followed immediately after the final whistle as several Argentina players became involved in clashes with Spain.
Nahuel Molina appeared to spark the confrontation after an incident involving Spain captain Rodri during the celebrations.
Leandro Paredes then became heavily involved, clashing with Eric Garcia before also grappling with Gavi and forcing him to the ground.
Paredes was initially reported to have received a red card for his actions after the final whistle.
However, the red card was later removed from the official record, with no disciplinary action taken at the time.
FIFA could still punish those involved as an investigation into the post-match scenes continues.
Now, Paredes has broken his silence following Argentina’s World Cup final defeat, although he did not directly address the brawl. Writing on Instagram, he said:
“THANK YOU, ARGENTINA!!! I LOVE YOU, TODAY AND ALWAYS.
“Today, I write with a heavy heart, having been unable to bring our country the joy it so richly deserves – but with a chest full of pride for having given everything we had and for flying our flag at the very top once again!
“Thank you to everyone who was part of this national team – to this group of players who gave their all to represent this jersey, fighting for it until the very last second of every match!
“It was an honour to be part of the best Argentine national team in history.”
Paredes therefore focused his first public comments on Argentina’s run to the final and his pride in representing the national team.
Meanwhile, FIFA’s investigation remains ongoing, meaning the midfielder could still face punishment for his involvement in the post-match altercation.
Want to get the latest transfer news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
