Argentina Squad Backs Scaloni as Contract Talks Continue

Players past and present are urging Lionel Scaloni to remain as Argentina head coach while he negotiates a new deal with the Argentine Football Association.

Argentina's players have made their position clear as head coach Lionel Scaloni weighs his future with the national team. The 48-year-old's contract runs through December, and he suggested after the 1-0 World Cup final loss to Spain in July that he might step away. Talks with the Argentine Football Association over an extension are ongoing.

"For me, he is one of the most important coaches," midfielder Nicolás Paz told reporters on his arrival in Buenos Aires for training camp. "He gave me my debut, and I hope he stays."

Veteran defender Cristian Romero described Scaloni as central to the project, saying the squad wants him to continue. Leonardo Balerdi called it a privilege if the coach stays, while Gianluca Prestianni credited him with making Argentines proud. Goalkeeper Juan Musso pointed to the strong bond between the coach and the players.

Scaloni has built a 76-18-10 record across 104 matches in eight years in charge, a run that includes the 2022 World Cup title and Copa América crowns in 2021 and 2024. His tenure also featured a national-record 36-match unbeaten streak.

He has not spoken publicly since returning to Argentina but is set to hold a press conference next Tuesday before a friendly against Bolivia in Córdoba. Argentina will also face Burkina Faso and Benin between Sept. 30 and Oct. 6, with the final match at the Monumental Stadium serving as captain Lionel Messi's official farewell following his international retirement.