Scaloneta on the edge! Argentina's World Cup hero still hasn't said yes to staying
Two months after a tearful World Cup final defeat, Argentina are still waiting for the only answer that matters: Lionel Scaloni has not said yes.
Details: According to Gaston Edul, negotiations between Scaloni and the AFA are ongoing, but the coach has yet to give a definitive answer on renewing a contract that expires on December 31. The 48 year old is weighing whether he has the energy to rebuild the entire project after losing the 2026 final to Spain and saying goodbye to Lionel Messi.
The hesitation is deeply human. Scaloni broke down in tears after the final at MetLife, admitting he did not know if something this grand could be built again, and he has promised only to complete his contract and then decide. The task awaiting whoever stays is enormous: Messi retired from international football after the final, Nicolas Otamendi followed him out, and of the 17 players used in the Spain defeat only two will be under 30 when the 2030 World Cup kicks off. Inside the AFA there is optimism, with president Chiqui Tapia having made the renewal his absolute priority, but federation chief Marcelo Tinelli... rather, the whole setup admits there is no plan B. For now, the architect of the 2022 world title and two Copas America keeps everyone guessing.
It's worth noting that Scaloni recently reached 100 games in charge of Argentina, a century that delivered three major trophies and a permanent place in Albiceleste folklore.
Reminder: Is he staying? AFA begin talks with Lionel Scaloni over new contract.
Miguel Solomons
Dailysports's expert
