Lionel Scaloni broke down in tears during his post-match press conference after Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain, hinting that he may step down as head coach when his contract expires in December. The 48-year-old, who has led Argentina to two Copa Americas, one World Cup, and La Finalissima since 2018, admitted he needs time to consider whether to continue.
Emotional Press Conference
Speaking after the 1-0 loss to Spain, Scaloni said: "I haven't spoken with Leo [Messi]. As for me, I'm going to talk to the president. I have an idea of what I want to do. I'll fulfil the contract and then we'll see. The truth is, I feel the need to think, because I don't know if I'll be able to do something as big as this." He then broke down in tears, adding: "Being in the place I am, a dream come true for everyone. We tried until the very last moment to give our all as a coaching staff and as players. It's only right that I can take this time to think about it."
Contract Situation
Scaloni's current deal runs until December 2026. While he plans to speak with the Argentinian Football Association president about fresh terms, he insisted there is a chance he could call time on his tenure. Before abruptly leaving the press conference, he said: "In my life I never thought, we all thought on the coaching staff, that we'd be in this position. So, to continue, a lot of things are needed, especially to reset, to rebuild a group like this, which is unlikely to be formed again, and it pains me deeply."
World Cup Final Defeat
Argentina were comprehensively outplayed in the final, managing just two shots to Spain's 20. Spain had to be patient, eventually breaking through in the 106th minute when substitute Ferran Torres scored the winner after Enzo Fernandez was sent off for two yellow cards. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez had kept his side in the match with several brilliant saves.
