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Former Sweden international Zlatan Ibrahimović took aim at Leandro Paredes and Spain players after the tumultuous end to the World Cup final in New Jersey. The 44-year-old pundit condemned the Argentina midfielder’s fiery antics during a post-match brawl while questioning Spain’s lack of response to the provocation.
Tensions boil over after the match
Spain won the World Cup trophy thanks to a 106th-minute extra-time goal from Ferran Torres, after dominating the match without allowing Argentina a single shot on target in normal time. The South Americans’ frustration deepened with Enzo Fernández’s late red card before normal time expired, while Paredes escaped being sent off despite a second-half booking.
A post-match melee broke out when Nahuel Molina punched Rodri, before Paredes kicked Eric Garcia and dragged Gavi to the ground, while coach Roberto Ayala appeared to punch Dani Olmo.
Ibrahimović criticizes fiery scenes
Ibrahimović denounced the post-match chaos during his appearance as a pundit on Fox Sports. Criticizing Paredes’ behavior while questioning the passive reaction of Spanish players, the former AC Milan striker said: “Paredes can be happy that there is no player like me on the pitch. If I had been there, I would have headbutted him and been sent off. This is unprofessional behavior on his part.”
He added: “I don’t know what the Spanish players do? They just watch another player hit his teammate.”
Swedish icon confirms experts’ exit
Beyond his frank analysis of the New Jersey brawl, Ibrahimović surprised viewers by announcing that he was stepping down from his punditry duties. After headlining the Fox Sports studio throughout the tournament alongside fellow pundits Thierry Henry and Alexi Lalas, the former Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain frontman said: “I’ve spoken a lot over the last month and a half, but these will be my last words.
“Alexi [Lalas]Thierry, Rebecca [Lowe]THANKS. I had the pleasure of sharing this studio with you. I also thank Fox, USA and everyone who watched. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. This is my last visit to the studio. For me it was the first and last time.”
Disciplinary measures weigh heavily
FIFA has opened formal disciplinary proceedings regarding the massive confrontation involving full-time Argentine players and coaches. The Argentine Football Federation (AFA) faces hefty fines and player suspensions if a team or staff member is found guilty of wrongdoing. Meanwhile, Spain will continue to celebrate an iconic European Cup and World Cup double in the weeks to come.
