Zlatan Ibrahimovic Criticizes Leandro Paredes and Spain Players Over World Cup Final Scuffle

Former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has launched a scathing attack on Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes over the ugly scenes that unfolded after the FIFA World Cup final, saying he would have "headbutted" the midfielder had he been on the pitch and accusing Spain's players of failing to stand up for their teammates. The dramatic showdown in New Jersey ended with Spain lifting the World Cup trophy thanks to Ferran Torres' extra-time winner in the 106th minute. However, the celebrations were overshadowed by chaotic post-match confrontations involving several Argentine players and members of the coaching staff. Speaking during his punditry role with Fox Sports, Ibrahimovic did not hold back in his assessment of Paredes' actions, branding the midfielder's behaviour "unprofessional" while expressing disbelief at Spain's passive reaction.

Tempers flared after the final whistle as emotions boiled over following Argentina's defeat. The heated exchanges came after Enzo Fernandez had already been sent off late in normal time, with frustration spilling into a post-match melee. Broadcast footage showed Nahuel Molina striking Rodri, while Paredes appeared to kick Eric Garcia before grabbing Gavi by the throat and dragging the Barcelona midfielder to the ground. Roberto Ayala, a member of Argentina's coaching staff, also appeared to become involved during the confrontation as players and officials from both teams rushed in to separate those involved. Reacting to the scenes, Ibrahimovic singled out Paredes for criticism. "Paredes can be happy there was no player like me on the pitch. If I had been there, I would have headbutted him and been sent off. It is unprofessional behaviour from him," he said. The former AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United striker has built a reputation for outspoken opinions throughout his career, and his comments after the World Cup final were among his strongest during the tournament.

While Paredes was the main target of Ibrahimovic's criticism, the Swedish icon was equally surprised by the reaction of Spain's players, believing they should have done more to defend their teammates during the confrontation. "I don't know what the Spanish players are doing? They are just watching another player hit their team-mate," Ibrahimovic said. The chaotic scenes capped an emotionally charged contest in which Spain largely controlled proceedings before Ferran Torres settled the final in extra time. Argentina had struggled to create meaningful chances throughout the match and saw their frustrations boil over as the final whistle approached.

Although many expected Paredes to receive a red card for his role in the post-match confrontation, reports later suggested that no dismissal was officially issued during the incident. However, the midfielder may still face retrospective disciplinary action, with FIFA opening an investigation into the events that unfolded after the final whistle. Paredes has since broken his silence on social media but stopped short of addressing the altercation. Instead, he thanked Argentina's supporters and expressed pride in representing his country despite the heartbreaking defeat. "Today, I write with a heavy heart, having been unable to bring our country the joy it so richly deserves—but with a chest full of pride for having given everything we had and for flying our flag at the very top once again," he wrote.