Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente tears into behaviour of Argentina players

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has described the behaviour of Argentina players in the immediate aftermath of Sunday's World Cup final as "intolerable" and "unacceptable".

FIFA is currently investigating the events that followed Spain's 1-0 win over Argentina in the World Cup final.

A series of incidents took place after the full-time whistle. Thiago Almada and Leandro Paredes wrestled Gavi to the ground, just moments after the latter had grabbed the neck of defender Eric Garcia.

Nahuel Molina also appeared to aim a punch towards Rodri as he ran past to join in Spain's celebrations, while Argentina coach and former Valencia defender Roberto Ayala is said to have hit out at Dani Olmo.

Earlier this week, FIFA confirmed they would investigate the post-match incidents.

A statement read: "Following an assessment of the relevant match reports for the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in line with Article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC), the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC with regard to the post-match incidents."

It added: "Further details will be communicated by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee once the prosecutor's report has been completed."

Leandro Paredes pushes Gavi to the ground. Image credit: Getty

Luis de la Fuente slams conduct of Argentina players in new interview

As the fallout continues from Sunday's heated final, De la Fuente gave his take on the situation during a recent appearance on Spanish television.

"At the time, I didn't realise it. I was celebrating, hugging team-mates," De la Fuente said.

"But in any case, it is intolerable, unacceptable, it cannot be allowed. Players of that stature, whom I praised in the days leading up to the match and continue to praise, who are great players with a tremendous coach, surely they must have felt just as bad as we did seeing those reactions."

The 65-year-old also commended his players for the way they carried themselves, adding: "I want to highlight our behaviour in the face of that kind of aggression and provocation. Our players always kept their composure and behaved like true professionals."

READ MORE: Argentina release statement on World Cup final replay claims after petition goes viral

What punishments could Argentina face?

If a player is found guilty of violent conduct, they will receive a minimum suspension of three matches, according to Article 14 of FIFA's Disciplinary Code, which lists a series of sanctions that can be imposed on players and staff for various misdemeanours.

A three-match ban will also be imposed for 'assault, including elbowing, punching, kicking, biting, spitting at or hitting an opponent or person other than a match official'.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) could also face sanctions if it is found that 'a national or club team conducts itself improperly'.

Players and officials may also be 'fined accordingly' if they are found to have committed one of the above offences, and FIFA reserve the right to impose further disciplinary measures if necessary.