Argentina’s players have publicly expressed their support for head coach Lionel Scaloni, as uncertainty continues over whether he will remain in charge of the national team beyond the end of his contract in December.
Scaloni’s future has been under discussion since Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final in July. The coach said after the final that he would fulfill his existing contract and then consider his future. Negotiations with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) over a possible extension remain ongoing.
Players Voice Support for Scaloni
Argentina’s squad members arriving for training in Buenos Aires on Tuesday voiced their desire for Scaloni to continue.
Young midfielder Nicolás Paz, who made his Argentina debut under Scaloni, described the coach as one of the most important figures in his career.
“He is one of the most important coaches for me. He gave me my debut, and I hope he stays,” Paz said.
Veteran defender Cristian Romero also backed the coach.
“We hope he stays. He is the key figure in building this national team, so obviously we want him to continue,” Romero said.
Other members of the squad, including goalkeeper Juan Musso and Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni, have likewise spoken positively about Scaloni and what he has built with the national team.
Scaloni’s Record With Argentina
Scaloni took charge of Argentina in 2018 and has overseen one of the most successful periods in the national team’s history.
According to AFA records, he has managed 104 matches, recording 76 wins, 18 draws and 10 defeats. His tenure includes the 2021 Copa América, 2022 Finalissima, 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2024 Copa América titles. Argentina also reached the 2026 World Cup final under his leadership.
During his tenure, Argentina established a 36-match unbeaten run, the longest in the national team’s history.
For now, Scaloni remains under contract through December, while discussions over his longer-term future with Argentina continue.
