Spain were crowned world champions in New Jersey after Ferran Torres’ goal sealed victory over Argentina in extra time – but the celebrations quickly turned bitter as tempers boiled over.
Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez was sent off for two bookable offences, including a horrendous tackle on Pau Cubarsi. Leandro Paredes then received a straight red for angry clashes with Eric Garcia and Gavi after the final whistle. Nahuel Molina was also seen throwing a punch towards Rodri as he ran to celebrate with Spain teammates.
“Spain win World Cup; Yamal mocks Paredes; Arsenal and Villa face major injury setbacks ahead of new season.”
During Spain’s open-top bus parade, star Lamine Yamal mocked Paredes with a sign reading “Velada del ano VII: Paredes vs Gav”, a reference to a boxing event. Paredes later took to social media, writing: “THANK YOU, ARGENTINA!!! I LOVE YOU, TODAY AND ALWAYS. 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.”
FIFA has launched an investigation into the post-match incidents. A statement read: “Following an assessment of the relevant match reports for the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in line with article 36 of the FIFA disciplinary code, the FIFA disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC with regard to the post-match incidents.”
Now attention shifts to the new Premier League season, and the tournament has left several clubs dealing with significant personnel issues. Arsenal may be the most affected: William Saliba had been managing a back issue before his tournament was ended by the same problem. The centre-back has not yet been assessed by the club’s medical team. Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka helped England finish third while managing their own fitness issues – they are not expected to need a longer lay-off but will be monitored closely. Elsewhere, Leandro Trossard joined Besiktas for £15m after an impressive tournament with Belgium, and Gabriel Martinelli could be sold this summer after showing flashes for Brazil.
Aston Villa’s transfer plans were thrown a curveball by Amadou Onana’s ruptured ACL in his right knee during Belgium’s last-16 win over the USA, which will rule him out until next year. They moved for Johan Manzambi – who completed a club-record move for more than £50m from Freiburg after excelling for Switzerland – and Joao Gomes, especially with Youri Tielemans joining Manchester United. Chelsea have agreed a £117m deal to sign England midfielder Morgan Rogers.
All 20 Premier League teams for 2026-27 had at least one player involved in the tournament. The club-by-club fallout is only just beginning.
