Ezeiza:Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has extended his contract until 2030, as announced by the Argentine Football Association (AFA) on Thursday. This announcement puts an end to the uncertainty surrounding his future with the national team.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, AFA President Claudio Tapia, alongside Scaloni, revealed the contract extension during a news conference at the Lionel Andres Messi training complex in Ezeiza. This comes just a day before Argentina's friendly match against Uruguay.
Scaloni, whose contract was set to expire in December, had previously raised doubts about his future following Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final in July. The new agreement ensures that Scaloni and his coaching staff will remain with the team through the 2030 World Cup, which will predominantly be hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with opening matches in South America.
Scaloni expressed his happiness about continuing in his role, maintaining that he is as motivated as when he first assumed the position. He has been leading the national team since September 2018, initially stepping in on an interim basis after the departure of Jorge Sampaoli.
Under Scaloni's leadership, Argentina has achieved significant successes, including winning the 2021 and 2024 Copa America titles, the 2022 Finalissima against Italy, and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, ending a 36-year wait for the title. Argentina also reached the 2026 World Cup final but was defeated by Spain after a semifinal victory over England.
The AFA has highlighted Argentina's record of reaching the semifinals in five consecutive major tournaments under Scaloni, which includes two World Cups and three Copa America competitions. The contract extension marks the beginning of a new era for Argentina following Lionel Messi's retirement from international football in October.
Scaloni's team is set to face Uruguay on Friday, followed by a match against Costa Rica on November 17, marking their final international fixtures of the year.