Zlatan Ibrahimovic hit out at everyone involved in the post-match brawl after the World Cup final, criticising both the aggression of the Argentine players and the lack of reaction from the Spanish team. The former Sweden international made his comments on Fox Sports, where he was working as a pundit.
World Cup final ends in controversy
Spain won the World Cup final 1-0 after extra time in New Jersey, with former Manchester City forward Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal after 106 minutes. The European champions dominated the game, with Argentina failing to produce a single shot in 90 minutes and none on target over the full 120 minutes.
Argentinian frustration began to boil over before the match ended. Enzo Fernandez was shown a red card before the end of normal time, while Leandro Paredes was fortunate not to follow him off the field after being booked early in the second half.
Brawl erupts after final whistle
Paredes was a central figure in the post-match brawl. He kicked and shoved over Eric Garcia before hauling Gavi to the ground. Nahuel Molina also sparked the scrap by hitting out at Rodri, while Argentina coach Roberto Ayala appeared to punch Dani Olmo.
Ibrahimovic was particularly critical of Paredes. 'Paredes can be happy there was no player like me on the pitch,' Ibrahimovic said. 'If I had been there, I would have headbutted him and been sent off. It is unprofessional behaviour from him.'
The former Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan striker also questioned the Spanish players' response. 'I don't know what the Spanish players are doing? They are just watching another player hit their teammate,' he added.
Ironic criticism
There was irony in Ibrahimovic criticising Paredes's lack of professionalism while stating he would have headbutted him, but that likely did not bother the outspoken Swede.
Ibrahimovic retires from punditry
The 44-year-old also announced his retirement from punditry during the broadcast. He had been a regular on Fox's World Cup coverage alongside Arsenal legend Thierry Henry. 'I have talked a lot during the past month and a half, but these will be my last words. Alexi (Lalas), Thierry, Rebecca (Lowe), thank you,' he said.
'It has been my pleasure to share this studio with you. I also thank Fox, the United States and everyone who watched. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. This is my last visit to the studio. For me, this was the first and last time.'
