Spain claimed their second World Cup title after Ferran Torres scored an extra-time winner against Argentina.
The final whistle triggered a brawl involving players from both sides. Nahuel Molina struck Rodri, while Leandro Paredes threw punches toward the Spain squad.
A separate heated exchange unfolded between former Manchester City teammates Nicolas Otamendi and Rodri. Otamendi accused Rodri and Aymeric Laporte of complaining about refereeing throughout the week.
"You were crying all week about the refereeing at the World Cup," Otamendi told a surprised Rodri. "That's not right, you were crying with the referees, my friend."
Laporte had previously questioned officiating decisions during Argentina's run to the final. He said his teammates were "greatly surprised" by some calls that went unpunished.
"I'm not at all worried about aggression in football if the referee does his job," Laporte said. He argued that unchecked fouls, particularly against Argentina, created chaos in major competitions.
Spain entered the tournament as a disciplined side, according to Laporte. He emphasized that his team avoided reckless fouls and relied on fair play.
Luis de la Fuente, who led Spain to European Championship glory two years ago, is now a World Cup-winning manager. The triumph marked Spain's first World Cup since 2010.
"So much pride for this generation of footballers," De la Fuente said. He described the squad as a family and an example for Spanish sport and youth.
The manager acknowledged the difficulty of the final. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made saves that delayed Spain's breakthrough until extra time.
"This is a World Cup final, even against ten men we had to suffer," De la Fuente said. "But we like to suffer, and we were prepared for everything."
Argentina fell short in their bid for back-to-back World Cup titles. The defeat ended their reign as champions.
