Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni broke down in tears during his post‑match press conference while discussing his future after Sunday’s World Cup final loss to Spain.
The 48‑year‑old Scaloni had been attempting to become only the second manager in history to defend the title, following Argentina’s victorious campaign in the 2022 World Cup.
However, the European champions Spain proved too strong, with Ferran Torres scoring in extra time to complete Luis de la Fuente’s squad’s European championship triumph.
Scaloni, whose contract runs out in December, became emotional when asked about his future.
“I will discuss it with the president,” he said. “I have an idea of what I would like to do. I intend to honor the remaining term of my contract, but I feel a need to reflect and determine whether I can handle something of this magnitude. We will work it through.”
He expressed gratitude to the president for the opportunity, noting it had been a dream for everyone involved, and emphasized that the staff and players gave everything until the final moment, adding that it was only right he take time to consider his next steps.
He continued speaking through his tears, adding, “Please bear with me—I am uncertain whether I can carry on.”
“This place is wonderful; it has been a dream for all of us,” he said. “We never imagined, including my staff, that we would reach this point.”
“To keep going you need many things, especially resetting your mind, rebooting, and rebuilding a team like this—something that is extremely difficult to recreate.”
He eventually rose, apologized to those present, and left the room, saying, “It’s truly painful; I am very sorry.”
