Former German international Dietmar Hamann has called for FIFA to impose a strict one-year ban on Argentina's Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina following their violent conduct after the 2026 World Cup final. The match, held on July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, saw Argentina lose 0-1 to Spain.

After the final whistle, Spanish players celebrated their second World Cup title, which led to a confrontation with some Argentine players. Paredes was involved in a physical altercation, pushing Spain's Eric Garcia after shoving Gavi to the ground. Molina also threw a punch at Rodri, escalating the situation further. Referee Slavko Vincic had to intervene, issuing a direct red card to Paredes for his actions.

Hamann expressed his discontent with the players' behavior, stating, "I would suspend both of them for a year, then let them decide if they want to return." He emphasized that such conduct is unacceptable and should be met with severe punishment. According to Hamann, Argentina has damaged its reputation due to this incident, which overshadowed the positive image they had built, largely thanks to Lionel Messi.

FIFA has announced an investigation into the violent actions of the Argentine players following their defeat. However, Gavi, a Spanish midfielder, suggested that a ban might not be necessary, stating, "If you ask me, no, I don't think they need to be suspended." He acknowledged that while the incident was not a good example for children, he believes that physicality is a part of football.

During the final, Argentina also displayed aggressive play, with Enzo Fernandez receiving a red card in stoppage time, leaving the team short-handed for extra time. Paredes, who came on as a substitute in the second half, committed four fouls but only received a yellow card.

Markus Babbel, a former German player, noted that while Argentina had previously impressed with their fighting spirit to reach the final, their actions in this match were disappointing. He remarked, "It would be a scandal if Argentina won in such a manner." Babbel also dismissed the possibility of Messi winning the 2026 Ballon d'Or, suggesting that the award should go to players who maintain top form throughout the year, mentioning candidates like Harry Kane and Michael Olise.