FC Barcelona footballer Dani Olmo has once again lashed out at former Argentine player Roberto Ayala, accusing him of not telling the truth following the incident after the 2026 World Cup final.
The Terrassa footballer Dani Olmo has once again targeted Roberto Ayala, a member of the Argentine national team's coaching staff, over the altercation that occurred after the 2026 World Cup final. In an interview with the Diari de Terrassa, the FC Barcelona midfielder stated that Ayala "is not telling the truth" in justifying his reaction.
“If someone says they are sorry, but then justifies a punch by saying it was because of something I said, they are probably not sorry. He is not telling the truth,” Olmo asserted, who was one of the protagonists of the incident that took place after Spain was crowned world champion.
The player denied any provocation towards Ayala: “I didn’t say anything to him, so I don’t need him to apologise. What truly defines us is not the mistake, but the courage to admit it with humility, truth, and dignity.”
Olmo emphasised the need to set an example on the pitch, especially for the younger generation. “When my children, my family, the fans, and the people of Terrassa watch the match, I want them to be proud of how we compete, how we win, but above all of our behaviour,” he pointed out.
The Spanish international wanted to focus on the sporting achievement, despite the controversy. “The significance of football means that players are role models for children, and that carries great responsibility. But thank God, what really matters is that we experienced an incredible World Cup, which the world saw, and that we are world champions after a lot of hard work,” he concluded.
The altercation between Olmo and Ayala occurred after the 2026 World Cup final, which Spain won against Argentina. At that time, Ayala, a member of the Argentine coaching staff, allegedly punched Olmo, according to the player’s report. Ayala later apologised, but Olmo believes his explanations are not sincere.
Olmo's statements have reignited the controversy at a time when Spanish football is celebrating the world title. The player, who came through the youth ranks of Terrassa FC before moving to FC Barcelona, has been one of the cornerstones of the national team in the tournament.
From Terrassa, the footballer has received support from locals and fans, who see him as a sporting and personal role model. However, the incident has sparked an intense debate about the behaviour of players and coaching staff in the moments following a final.
So far, neither the Spanish Football Federation nor the Argentine national team has officially commented on Olmo's new statements. The player has made it clear that he is not seeking further apologies, but rather recognition of the truth of what happened.
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