De la Fuente on behaviour of Argentinians: "It was unacceptable and intolerable"

The dust has begun to settle after the dramatic scenes during and after the World Cup final, in which Spain claimed their second world title. However, criticism of Argentina's players continues to dominate the conversation — and many believe it is fully justified.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente, speaking on national television, condemned what he described as the "unacceptable and intolerable" behavior of several Argentine players, who showed what he called their true colors after Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic blew the final whistle.

Nahuel Molina and Leandro Paredes were at the center of the incidents, confronting Rodri and Eric Garcia as Spain's players celebrated on the pitch at the stadium in New Jersey. Paredes also clashed with Gavi, while Nicolas Otamendi verbally confronted his former teammate Rodri.

Asked directly about the post-match altercations, De la Fuente did not hold back.

"At the time, I didn't even realize what was happening. I was celebrating and hugging my players," De la Fuente told Spanish television before adding:

"In any case, it was unacceptable and intolerable. Things like that should never be allowed. We're talking about top-level players whom I praised before the match and whom I continue to praise, as well as an outstanding coach. I'm sure they felt just as disappointed as we did when they saw those reactions."

The Spain boss also praised the way his own players handled the situation.

"I want to highlight the way we behaved in the face of those attacks and provocations. Our players remained composed throughout and conducted themselves like true sportsmen."

Although the incidents were captured on camera and widely circulated on social media, no Argentine players have been sanctioned so far. FIFA has opened an investigation to determine whether its disciplinary code was breached, with proceedings currently focused on Leandro Paredes and Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala.

The coach who has now guided Spain to European Championship, Nations League and World Cup glory admitted that the magnitude of winning the country's second World Cup has not fully sunk in yet.

"I'll become more aware of what we've achieved as the days go by," De la Fuente concluded with a smile.