Zlatan Ibrahimović spoke about Miguel Almirón after he became the first player in the world to receive a red card for covering his mouth while speaking, under the new "Prestianni's Law" rule.
On 20 Jun 2026 GMT+7, legendary Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimović commented on Paraguayan attacker Miguel Almirón after Almirón became the first player worldwide to receive a red card for covering his mouth while speaking on the field. This is under the new "Prestianni's Law," which states that any player who covers their mouth while speaking during a match will be immediately sent off. The rule aims to prevent players from using foul or derogatory language against opponents. Read more about the origins of "Prestianni's Law."Read more about the origins of "Prestianni's Law."
Zlatan Ibrahimović said, "The moment you cover your mouth while talking to an opponent, you create suspicion about whether you're saying something negative. If you cross the line, you must accept the consequences. Football always involves emotions, but there are limits players understand. What makes this situation intense is not just the red card, but that everyone on the field immediately knows why it happened."
"Over the years, players covered their mouths believing no one could prove what they said. But that no longer works. As I said, the moment you cover your mouth while speaking to an opponent, you raise suspicion. Whether you like this rule or not, players now know that football is changing. Let me say this: in this World Cup, if you can't control your emotions, a moment of frustration can destroy the entire team's effort."
"Your teammates fight hard for the full 90 minutes. Your country is watching. Then suddenly, one decision, one word, one unnecessary reaction changes everything. I've played football at the highest level for many years. I've seen foul language, arguments, and psychological games. But the smartest players always know where the line is—what to do and what not to do."
"Because once the referee shows a red card, no one remembers your excuses. Everyone remembers only that you left your team one player short. Whether people agree with the decision or not, Miguel Almirón became the first player to face this costly lesson under this rule."