Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala has admitted that he was in the wrong after becoming involved in a heated confrontation with Dani Olmo following the World Cup final.
Television footage showed the former Argentina defender confronting Olmo during the disorder that broke out after the final whistle. Ayala has now expressed regret and said that he intends to apologize to the Spain midfielder in person.
Spain’s triumph ends in ugly scenes
Spain secured their second world title with a 1–0 victory over Argentina at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford.
Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute after Argentina had been reduced to ten men. Enzo Fernández received his second yellow card late in normal time, according to FIFA’s official match report.
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The tension continued after the final whistle.
Nahuel Molina appeared to strike Spain captain Rodri in the stomach, while Leandro Paredes appeared to grab Eric García by the throat before throwing Gavi to the ground, as described by The Guardian.
Ayala was also caught up in the confrontation and was seen making contact with Olmo.
Ayala accepts responsibility
Speaking to Valencia Capital Radio in comments quoted by Reuters, Ayala acknowledged that his position demanded greater restraint.
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“Of course I’m sorry,” he said.
Ayala rejected claims that he had punched Olmo, insisting: “It was more of a shove than anything else, it wasn’t a punch as they’re making it out to be.”
The 53-year-old said he had initially approached the confrontation to separate the players and congratulate the Spanish team. He nevertheless accepted responsibility for his reaction and admitted that the emotion of the occasion was not an excuse.
He also said that the incident had been triggered by something Olmo said, although he did not reveal the nature of the comment.
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FIFA examines possible disciplinary breaches
FIFA has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to examine the post-match incidents involving Argentina’s players and coaching staff.
The investigation was opened under Article 36, which allows disciplinary and ethics prosecutors to examine possible breaches and submit their findings to FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee.
According to the current FIFA Disciplinary Code, Article 13 covers conduct that breaches basic standards of decency or brings football into disrepute. Article 14 states that violent conduct or assault can result in a suspension of at least three matches.
Those provisions outline the possible basis for disciplinary action. They do not mean that Ayala or any of the players involved have already been found guilty.
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FIFA had not announced any sanctions as of July 23. Suspensions could be imposed on individuals, while the Argentine Football Association may also face a fine depending on the prosecutor’s findings.
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