Argentina’s assistant coach who hit a Spanish star speaks out after the tense moment
Argentina’s assistant manager has finally spoken up after being seen hitting Spain star Dani Olmo following the World Cup final loss. Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in extra time, giving Spain their second world title.
Argentina, who had Enzo Fernandez sent off, didn’t take the loss well, and things got heated right after the game. When Spain’s captain Rodri ran back onto the pitch, cameras caught Argentina’s right-back Nahuel Molina throwing a punch.
But that wasn’t all. Leandro Paredes was also seen grabbing Eric Garcia by the throat and knocking Gavi to the ground in a fierce moment.
The most surprising moment came from Argentina’s assistant coach, Roberto Ayala, who was caught putting his hands on Barcelona midfielder Olmo.
A few days later, Ayala—who played for AC Milan and Valencia—spoke out about his actions. He apologized but said he didn’t punch Olmo.
“I’m sorry for what happened. Because of my role, I shouldn’t let my feelings or what others say change how I act. It was more of a push than a punch, despite what people say. It was a reaction to something he said, but that’s all. If I see him, I’ll apologize in person,” Ayala told Esports Migdia, as reported by Barca Blaugranes.
“I take responsibility for what I did. I meant to break things up, not to cause trouble. Sometimes emotions run high, but that’s no excuse. Given my position, I should act differently no matter what. I told Eric García I just wanted to separate them and congratulate the players, nothing more.”
Argentina now faces possible punishment for the post-match chaos, as FIFA has opened an investigation. The disciplinary committee has appointed a prosecutor to look closely at everything that happened.
Anyone involved could be punished if found guilty of breaking rules about decent behavior or harming the sport’s reputation.
FIFA’s rules say players and staff caught in violent acts could be suspended for at least three national team games—this includes punching, kicking, or any kind of assault.