Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente said his players were among the victims and those most affected by the incidents that occurred at the end of the World Cup final against Argentina.

De la Fuente stressed the need to confront such behavior and prevent similar incidents in the future in order to protect the image of football and preserve its values.

His comments came days after the disciplinary committee of world football's governing body announced sanctions against several individuals involved in the confrontation that followed the final.

Sanctions Following the World Cup Final

The sanctions included a 10-match suspension for Argentine midfielder Leandro Paredes, while teammate Nahuel Molina received a seven-match ban.

Coach Roberto Ayala was suspended for three matches, Thiago Almada received a one-match suspension, and Spain midfielder Gavi was also banned for one match.

De la Fuente Calls the Incident Unacceptable

During an interview with the radio program “25 Hours,” De la Fuente said such scenes must be highlighted and addressed in order to prevent them from happening again.

The Spain coach described what happened as unacceptable and intolerable, stressing that the images seen by millions of viewers around the world did not represent the values of football.

De la Fuente also emphasized that Spain's players were not involved in initiating the confrontation and were among those most affected by the events after the match.

Apologies From Scaloni and Argentine Players

De la Fuente revealed that he received apology messages from Lionel Scaloni, Argentina's head coach, as well as several Argentine players.

The Spain manager expressed hope that similar incidents would not be repeated, particularly because football can play an important role in teaching younger generations the values of respect and sportsmanship.

De la Fuente Reacts to San Mames Boos

De la Fuente also commented on the boos heard from some Athletic Bilbao supporters during a ceremony honoring several Spain players at San Mames before the team's match against Sevilla.

The Spain coach said he was saddened by the reaction while emphasizing his pride in his long relationship with Athletic Bilbao, which lasted around 18 years.

Lezama Graduates Deserve Recognition

De la Fuente stressed that players who came through the Lezama academy in the Vizcaya region achieving a major accomplishment such as winning the World Cup deserves recognition and respect.

He emphasized that international achievements should be appreciated regardless of disagreements or reactions from sections of the crowd.

Respect Remains Fundamental to Football

Luis de la Fuente concluded by emphasizing that respect for others remains the foundation for coexistence both inside and outside football.

The Spain coach believes intense competition should never come at the expense of respect and that football must protect its image and values, particularly in front of millions of fans and younger generations.

What did De la Fuente say about the World Cup final incident?
He said Spain's players were among those affected and described the incident as unacceptable.

Who were among those suspended?
Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, Roberto Ayala, Thiago Almada and Gavi were among those sanctioned.

Did De la Fuente receive apologies from Argentina?
Yes. He received apology messages from Lionel Scaloni and several Argentine players.

What did he say about the boos at San Mames?
He expressed sadness over the reaction while reaffirming his pride in his long association with Athletic Bilbao.