Spain midfielder, Dani Olmo, has dismissed Roberto Ayala’s apology following their altercation after the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, accusing the Argentina assistant coach of being dishonest about what happened.
The incident occurred after Spain’s 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the World Cup final on July 19, 2026, when a confrontation broke out on the pitch after the final whistle.
Ayala later downplayed the episode, insisting he only shoved Olmo rather than punched him.
He also maintained that he had entered the field to break up the scuffle and reacted after the Spanish midfielder allegedly made a remark.
Responding to Ayala’s explanation, Olmo rejected the apology, insisting the former Argentina defender had misrepresented both the physical contact and the events leading up to it.
“Someone who claims to be sorry but justifies a punch by saying it was a response to something being said probably isn’t sorry at all.
“He’s lying. I didn’t say anything to him, so I don’t need his apology. What truly defines us isn’t a mistake, but the courage to acknowledge it.
“When my children, my family, so many fans, and the people of Terrassa watch the match, I want them to be proud of how we competed and won. But above all, of our behavior, because as players we are role models for children, and that carries great responsibility.”
