Lionel Scaloni to remain Argentina coach until 2030 World Cup
The Argentine Football Association president announced the contract renewal for the manager who led the team to the 2022 World Cup title.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni agreed on Thursday to continue leading the national football team until after the 2030 World Cup, according to reports by Hindustan Times and Sportstar. Argentine Football Association (AFA) president Claudio Tapia announced the contract renewal during a press conference at the Lionel Andrés Messi Training Center.
The decision follows doubts regarding Scaloni's future after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the July 19 World Cup final in New Jersey. Tapia stated that by the end of this contract, Scaloni will have overseen more World Cup tournaments than any other Argentina manager.
Scaloni, who has been in charge since September 2018, said he remains as enthusiastic as he was on his first day. He noted that a new project is beginning following the departure of Lionel Messi from international football a month ago.
The 48-year-old manager previously led the team to the 2022 World Cup victory in Qatar and two Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024. The AFA statement noted that under his leadership, reaching the semifinals has become a standard for the team.
Scaloni took over the role without prior experience after Argentina was eliminated in the round of 16 during the World Cup in Russia. He now leads the squad following the loss to Spain, where he emphasised the need to maintain team spirit and unity.