Argentina Players Back Lionel Scaloni Amid Unresolved Contract Talks
Argentina’s players have publicly urged Lionel Scaloni to extend his stay as national-team coach, with his current agreement due to end in December and talks with the Argentine Football Association still unresolved.
The 48-year-old has received firm backing from within the Albiceleste squad after uncertainty over his future grew following Spain’s 1-0 win in July’s showpiece. Players arriving at the national training centre in Buenos Aires on Tuesday stressed both Scaloni’s influence on the group and their wish for continuity.
Squad backs Scaloni extension
- Nico Paz, whose senior international debut came under Scaloni, described him as among the most important coaches in his career and said he hoped the manager would remain in charge.
- Tottenham centre-back Cristian Romero said Scaloni had been central to the creation of the current Argentina side, adding that the squad wants him to continue.
- Goalkeeper Juan Musso pointed to the coach’s achievements and the strong respect and affection he commands among the players.
- Leonardo Balerdi said representing Argentina with Scaloni as coach was a privilege.
- Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni said Scaloni had devoted himself fully to the national side and brought happiness to supporters across Argentina.
A defining spell with Argentina
Scaloni has overseen 104 matches during an eight-year period in charge, recording 76 wins, 18 draws and 10 defeats. His tenure includes Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph and Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024.
Argentina also put together a 36-game unbeaten run under his leadership, a sequence that helped define one of the most successful eras in the country’s international history.
Bolivia match and Messi farewell ahead
- Scaloni is due to speak at an official press conference next Tuesday before Argentina play Bolivia in Córdoba.
- The national side will then meet Burkina Faso and Benin between September 30 and October 6.
- The match against Benin at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium is set to carry particular significance, as it will mark Lionel Messi’s formal final appearance for Argentina after the captain announced his international retirement.
