Roberto Ayala, assistant coach of the Argentine national team, has apologized for the clash with Spanish midfielder Dani Olmo during the events following the World Cup final, as FIFA continues its investigation into the incident that occurred after Spain's 1-0 victory.

In statements to Valencia Capital radio, Ayala expressed regret over what happened, stressing that his position on the coaching staff requires him to exercise self-control and not allow any provocation or reaction from the other party to affect his actions.

He added: 'Of course I am sorry. Considering my position, I cannot allow any feeling, or any reaction I might receive from the other party, to influence my mood or actions.'

The Argentine assistant coach denied rumors that he punched Olmo, affirming that what happened was nothing more than a push in response to words from the Spanish player.

He said: 'We have to put an end to this. What happened was just a push more than anything else, and it wasn't a punch as some try to portray it. It was a reaction to something he said, but that's all there is to it.'

He also confirmed his willingness to apologize directly, adding: 'If I see him, I will apologize to him personally, of course.'

Attempt to break up the clash

Ayala explained that the tension following the final whistle affected his actions, noting that he initially headed to the scene to separate the players from both teams before events escalated.

He said: 'When the match ended, I saw a scuffle in the middle of the pitch, so we rushed over to get our players out. I take responsibility for what I did. My intention was to go and separate them, but sometimes things happen unintentionally and your heart is pounding, even though that's no excuse.'

He added that he also spoke with Spanish defender Eric Garcia, explaining that his goal was to calm the situation and congratulate the Spanish players.

Several players involved

The post-match events involved several Argentine players, including Nahuel Molina and Thiago Almada, while footage showed Leandro Paredes grabbing Spanish defender Eric Garcia by the neck during the clashes between the two teams.

Ongoing investigation by FIFA

FIFA had announced the opening of disciplinary proceedings regarding the events of the World Cup final, and also appointed a specialized prosecutor for disciplinary and ethical matters to investigate the clashes involving players and members of both coaching staffs.

The investigations are expected to result in disciplinary sanctions that could include suspensions for those involved, in addition to the possibility of a fine on the Argentine Football Association.