Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has condemned the behaviour of several Argentina players following the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, describing their actions as "intolerable" and "unacceptable" as FIFA's investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
The comments come after post-match altercations involving Nahuel Molina and Leandro Paredes overshadowed Spain's World Cup triumph over Argentina in New Jersey.
What did De la Fuente say?
Speaking to Spanish television, De la Fuente revealed he was initially unaware of the incidents as he celebrated Spain's victory with his players.
"At the time, I didn't realise it. I was celebrating, hugging teammates," De la Fuente said.
"But in any case, it is intolerable, unacceptable, it cannot be allowed. "
The Spain boss added that he still
holds Argentina's squad and coaching staff in high regard despite the ugly scenes.
"Players of that stature, whom I praised in the days leading up to the match and continue to praise, who are great players with a tremendous coach, surely they must have felt just as bad as we did seeing those reactions. "
What happened after the World Cup final?
As Spain celebrated winning their second FIFA World Cup title, tensions boiled over between players from both teams.
According to reports, Nahuel Molina confronted Rodri, while Leandro Paredes was involved in separate altercations with Eric GarcÍa and Gavi.
Videos of the incidents quickly circulated on social media and prompted FIFA to launch a disciplinary investigation.
Spain coach praises his own players
De la Fuente also commended his squad for keeping their composure despite what he described as repeated provocations.
He praised the way Spain's players responded to the "acts of aggression" and said their restraint prevented the situation from escalating further.
Has FIFA taken any action?
Not yet.
Although FIFA has opened an investigation into the post-match incidents, no disciplinary sanctions have been announced against any Argentina players so far.
The governing body is examining whether the confrontations breached its disciplinary code before deciding whether any action is warranted.
The investigation remains ongoing.
