Buenos Aires, Sept 24:
Argentina’s players have thrown their support behind coach Lionel Scaloni as he considers his future with the national team, with several members of the squad publicly expressing their desire for him to continue in charge.
Scaloni’s contract is due to expire in December and the 48-year-old coach remains in discussions with the Argentine Football Association over a possible extension. He had hinted at stepping down after Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup final in July.
Midfielder Nicolás Paz, who made his Argentina debut under Scaloni, said the coach was one of the most important figures in his career and expressed hope that he would remain with the team. Veteran defender Cristian Romero also backed the coach, saying the squad wanted him to continue and describing him as a key figure in building the current national team.
Other players have echoed the same sentiment. Leonardo Balerdi described Scaloni’s continued presence as a privilege, while Gianluca Prestianni highlighted the coach’s contribution to Argentina’s recent success. Goalkeeper Juan Musso also spoke of the strong bond within the squad and the high regard in which Scaloni is held by the players.
Scaloni took charge of Argentina eight years ago and has overseen one of the most successful periods in the country’s recent international history. Under him, Argentina won the 2021 and 2024 Copa América titles and the 2022 World Cup. He has recorded 76 wins, 18 draws and 10 defeats in 104 matches, while also guiding Argentina through a 36-match unbeaten run.
Scaloni has not publicly discussed his future since returning to Argentina, but he is scheduled to address the media next Tuesday ahead of the team’s forthcoming friendly against Bolivia. Argentina are also due to play Burkina Faso and Benin during the international window, with the Benin match expected to serve as Lionel Messi’s farewell appearance for the national side.