Boca Juniors midfielder Leandro Paredes has spoken out against what he calls a disproportionate sanction handed to him following the 2026 World Cup final, claiming Spanish international Gavi punched him in the chest during the incident that triggered his punishment. Paredes confirmed the Argentine Football Association (AFA) intends to formally appeal the disciplinary decision.
What did Paredes say about the incident?
Paredes directly pointed to Gavi as the instigator of the confrontation, arguing that the Spanish youngster’s physical provocation was the true origin of the flare-up that led to his sanction. The Argentine player expressed frustration that he was the one facing consequences despite, in his view, having been on the receiving end of the aggression.
“It’s Gavi who punches me in the chest, and somehow I’m the one who gets punished for it.”
His comments suggest he views the sanction as unjust, given that he believes he reacted to provocation rather than initiating any wrongdoing himself.
Why is the Argentine federation appealing the sanction?
The AFA’s decision to challenge the ruling reflects Paredes’ own conviction that the severity of his punishment does not match the circumstances of the incident. By lodging an appeal, the federation aims to have the sanction reviewed, potentially reduced, or overturned entirely, arguing that the full context of the clash with Gavi was not properly weighed by disciplinary authorities.
Such appeals are common in high-profile football disputes, especially when a player’s reaction is framed as a direct response to another athlete’s conduct on the pitch. The outcome could have implications for Paredes’ immediate availability, depending on how quickly the review process unfolds.
What comes next for Paredes and Argentina?
With the appeal now in motion, attention turns to how football’s disciplinary bodies will assess the conflicting accounts of the altercation. Paredes’ public remarks add pressure on officials to revisit the footage and testimony surrounding the moment he says was sparked by Gavi’s punch.
For now, Paredes remains vocal about his belief that he was unfairly singled out, while the Argentine federation works through the formal channels to contest the ruling in hopes of easing the consequences for one of its key midfielders.
