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Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni admitted he is uncertain about his future after his side’s 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
An emotional Scaloni revealed he plans to speak with the Argentine Football Association president before deciding whether to continue in the role when his contract expires in December.
“I will talk to the president,” Scaloni said. “I have an idea of what I would like to do. I will see out my contract, and I feel the need to think, as I don’t know if something as big can be done again.
“I am thankful to the president for giving me this opportunity. We’ve tried until the very last minute to give everything, and I believe it’s only fair that I take this time for myself to think things through.”
End of a historic era?
If Scaloni decides to step down, he will leave as Argentina’s most successful manager.
The 48-year-old guided La Albiceleste to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, and a second consecutive World Cup final in 2026 after taking charge following the nation’s disappointing last-16 exit in 2018.
He is only the second Argentine coach to reach back-to-back World Cup finals after Carlos Bilardo.
Squad set for major transition
Scaloni acknowledged that rebuilding the current squad could prove one of the biggest challenges if he remains in charge.
With captain Lionel Messi now 39 years old and several members of the 2022 title-winning team approaching the latter stages of their careers, Argentina are expected to undergo significant changes before the next major tournament.
“I would never have imagined that we would reach this point,” Scaloni said through tears.
“To continue, you need many things, especially resetting your mind. Creating another group like this is very difficult. It’s really painful. I am very sorry.”
The coach ended his press conference to prolonged applause from the assembled media.
‘Spain deserved to win’
Despite the heartbreak, Scaloni accepted the result after Spain secured victory through Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner.
“We feel extremely grateful to our fans, who gave us the energy we needed,” he said.
“It just couldn’t happen in the end. Spain deserved the victory. That’s the reality, and we have to accept it.
“But we were close. I want to thank my players and everyone who helped us reach another World Cup final.”