"If I run into him...": Argentine staff member Roberto Ayala says he is "sorry" for hitting Spaniard Dani Olmo after the final

It was one of the defining scenes of the end of the 2026 World Cup. After Spain's victory over Argentina in Sunday's final, a wave of violence erupted on the pitch of MetLife Stadium in New York City. While Leandro Paredes has remained in the spotlight in recent days, Roberto Ayala also crossed the line. Lionel Scaloni's assistant struck Spain's Dani Olmo after the final whistle.

Invited to the Esports Migdia show on Valencia Capital Radio, the former Albiceleste center-back (115 caps) offered his mea culpa after his actions. "Obviously, I'm sorry. Given my position, I can't let a feeling, or what I might receive from the other person, influence my mood and dictate my actions. I regret it," he explained.

An investigation opened by FIFA?

While acknowledging his mistake, the former Valencia player denies punching Dani Olmo, claiming he initially intended to separate the players in the middle of the fight. "For me, it's time to move on. It was more of a scuffle than anything else, not a punch as they claim. It was a reaction to something he said, that's all. If I run into him, I will obviously apologize to him in person," he asserted.

According to the BBC, FIFA will open an investigation into the clashes that occurred at the end of the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. The governing body is reportedly targeting Nahuel Molina, who struck Rodri, but especially Leandro Paredes, who has been found guilty of several acts of brutality against the Spanish players.