Tearful Scaloni uncertain of Argentina future after World Cup loss

What the report says

Al Jazeera, carrying a Reuters report published on July 20, 2026, said Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni left his future uncertain after a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup final. Speaking emotionally after the match, Scaloni said he would discuss his next steps with the president of Argentina’s football federation and intended to complete his contract, which the report says runs until December.

The loss ended Argentina’s attempt to become the first team since Brazil in 1958 and 1962 to win consecutive men’s World Cups. Spain prevailed through Ferran Torres’ goal in the 106th minute, with Scaloni acknowledging that Spain deserved the victory while also thanking Argentina’s players, staff and supporters for helping the team reach another final.

Scaloni’s position carries major significance because of the success he has delivered since taking over after Argentina’s exit in the last 16 of the 2018 World Cup. Despite early doubts over his limited head coaching experience, he led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title and Copa America victories in 2021 and 2024. The report notes he is only the second Argentine coach to reach back-to-back World Cup finals, after Carlos Bilardo.

A key issue is whether Argentina can rebuild a squad that has stayed together through a historic run. Lionel Messi is now 39, and Al Jazeera reported that eight players started both the 2022 and 2026 finals. Scaloni said recreating a group of similar quality would be difficult and that he needed time to reset before deciding whether to continue.