Spain midfielder Dani Olmo has rejected an apology from Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala following their altercation after the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
Ayala was caught on video making contact with Olmo’s neck during a heated confrontation that broke out after Spain’s 1-0 victory over Argentina.
The incident was one of several clashes involving players and coaching staff from both teams in the aftermath of the final.
Ayala apologised for the incident in an interview with Spanish newspaper Diari de Terrassa, stating, “It was a reaction to something [Olmo] did.” However, Olmo made it clear he would not accept Ayala’s apology.
“Someone who says they’re sorry but justifies a punch by saying it was a response to a comment is surely not sorry because he is lying. I didn’t say anything to him, so he doesn’t need to apologize,” he said.
“What truly defines us is not the mistake, but the courage to acknowledge it with humility, honesty and dignity.”
Olmo played in all eight games in the World Cup and recorded two assists.
