Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has hinted at potentially ending his tenure with the national team following their 2026 World Cup final defeat to Spain, confirming he will evaluate his future once his current contract with the AFA (Argentine Football Association) expires.
Scaloni’s remarks came after La Albiceleste suffered a narrow 1-0 extra-time defeat, bringing a heartbroken end to their title defense following their historic 2022 victory.
“I will continue as Argentina manager until December… after that, I will likely stop,” Scaloni stated.
“I will speak with the federation president. I believe it is only fair to give myself time to reflect. I never imagined reaching this point, and it has been an incredible journey.”
The Argentine manager emphasized the intense mental demands required to stay at the helm: “To keep going, you need many things: to refresh your mind, restart, and build a group like this all over again… and that is extremely difficult.”
Scaloni also addressed the future of captain Lionel Messi, who played the tournament at age 39, stressing that any decision regarding international retirement rests solely with the player.
“He is 39 now. It was always clear to me that he would continue playing until he decides for himself to stop,” Scaloni noted.
He concluded with high praise for the legendary captain: “I hope everyone feels proud of what he has accomplished, because he is the greatest footballer to ever step onto a pitch. I have no doubt about that. What he delivered in this tournament—and throughout his career before it—was simply amazing.”
