Argentina Players Break Silence Amid FIFA Investigation
Several Argentina players at the center of ugly scenes following the World Cup final have broken their silence overnight, but none have addressed the incidents now under FIFA investigation. Instead, the squad posted emotional messages thanking supporters after Sunday's 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain, with Leandro Paredes insisting it was an honor to be part of "the best Argentine national team in history" despite facing potential disciplinary action.
Argentina midfielder Paredes has become a central figure in FIFA's investigation after appearing involved in confrontations following the final whistle at MetLife Stadium. The 32-year-old was initially reported to have been sent off after clashing with Spain defender Eric Garcia, although FIFA has since confirmed that dismissal was removed from the official match record.
FIFA Appoints Disciplinary Prosecutor
World football's governing body has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate the post-match incidents, meaning players and staff could still face significant sanctions. Despite growing scrutiny, Paredes made no mention of the investigation in an emotional Instagram post published overnight.
He wrote: "Thank you Argentina. I love you today and always. Today I write with a heavy heart for not being able to give you the joy our country so deserves, but my heart is bursting with pride for giving everything we had and raising our flag high once again. Thank you to everyone who was part of this team, to this group of players who gave their all to represent this jersey until the very last second of every match. It was an honor to be part of the best Argentine national team in history."
Teammates Express Pain of Defeat
His statement follows similar messages from several teammates, all focusing on the pain of defeat rather than the chaotic scenes after the final whistle. Enzo Fernandez, sent off during stoppage time before post-match altercations began, thanked supporters for their "unconditional support" and said wearing Argentina's shirt was "the greatest honor" of his career.
Lionel Messi admitted the defeat would "take time to heal," while congratulating Spain and reflecting on Argentina's achievement of reaching back-to-back World Cup finals. Cristian Romero apologized to supporters for failing to retain the trophy, insisting players gave "everything" for the shirt, while Nicolas Otamendi thanked fans after saying the squad returned home with "broken hearts."
Rodrigo De Paul Hits Back at Critics
One player who did reference the controversy surrounding Argentina's tournament was Rodrigo De Paul. The Inter Miami midfielder hit back at critics, writing that many people had been "waiting for this fall" and accusing them of spreading "baseless conspiracy theories" throughout the World Cup. He added that the criticism had only strengthened the team's bond with supporters.
The social media posts come just hours after FIFA confirmed it had escalated its response to the disorder following Spain's victory. The governing body has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of its disciplinary code relating to the post-match incidents.
FIFA Investigation Could Lead to Suspensions
That investigation will examine the conduct of Argentina's players, coaching staff, and officials after the final whistle, with FIFA possessing the power to impose worldwide suspensions if serious breaches are established. The latest investigation comes on top of separate disciplinary proceedings already under way over Argentina's "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" banner displayed after the semi-final victory over England, meaning the Argentine Football Association is now facing two FIFA cases arising from the tournament.
