Lionel Scaloni, the Argentina manager, left his post-match news conference in tears, apologising through sobs and saying: "I don't know if I can continue." The 48-year-old had just watched his side lose 1-0 to Spain in the World Cup final, a defeat that denied them back-to-back titles.
Scaloni has been Argentina's manager since 2018, leading them to the 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar. He was bidding to become only the second manager in history to retain the trophy. But European champions Spain proved too strong, with Ferran Torres scoring the extra-time winner after Argentina's Enzo Fernandez was sent off. The match finished 1-0 in New Jersey.
“Why Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni broke down in tears and hinted at leaving after losing the World Cup final.”
After the final whistle, Scaloni's contract—which expires in December—became the focus. In the press conference, he was asked about his future and broke down. "I will talk to the president," he said. "I have an idea of what I would like to do. I will see out my contract and I feel the need, I don't know if something as big can be done. We need to speak this through." He added: "Bear with me, I don't know if I can continue. In order to continue you need a great deal of things, especially resetting your mind, rebooting, creating a group like this again. That is very difficult to create again."
Scaloni's emotional reaction highlights the immense pressure of managing a national team at the highest level. For UK readers, his potential departure matters because Argentina are one of football's biggest draws, and a vacancy would trigger a high-profile managerial hunt. Scaloni himself could become a target for European clubs, given his World Cup pedigree. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi—who hinted before the final that he might retire—was also seen in tears after the defeat, raising questions about Argentina's immediate future.
Q: Why did Lionel Scaloni cry at the press conference? Scaloni became emotional when asked about his future after Argentina lost the World Cup final to Spain. He said he needed time to think, describing the job as a "dream place" but admitting that rebuilding the team and mindset would be "very difficult."
Q: Has Lionel Scaloni resigned as Argentina manager? No, he has not resigned. His contract expires in December 2026, and he plans to speak with the Argentine Football Association president. He said he would "see out" his contract but hinted he might not continue beyond that.
Q: Will Lionel Messi retire from international football? Messi has not officially announced retirement, but he was visibly emotional after the final. Before the match, he gave major hints that this might be his last World Cup. A decision is expected in the coming weeks.
What happens next is uncertain. Scaloni will meet with the AFA president to discuss his future. If he steps down, Argentina will need a new manager ahead of the next international fixtures. Messi's decision on his international career will also shape the team's transition. For now, Scaloni's heartfelt words have left the football world waiting.