Lionel Scaloni broke down and left his post-match press conference in tears when asked about his future, moments after Argentina’s World Cup final defeat to Spain on Sunday. The 1-0 loss at the New York New Jersey Stadium sparked a violent brawl, with Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina and even Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala among those clashing with Spanish players. FIFA launched an investigation into “offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play” — yet, astonishingly, president Gianni Infantino has written a sycophantic letter to Argentina FA president Claudio Tapia, praising the “professionalism” of the South Americans.
The leaked letter, obtained by Mirror Football, opens with Infantino congratulating Argentina on winning the “silver medal” and hails the “magnificent performance of the Albiceleste”. He wrote: “These victories are always the fruit of constant work, professionalism and attention to detail, but also of passion, commitment and love for this wonderful sport.” The letter makes no mention of the post-match violence, instead telling Tapia: “All this augurs a very promising future.”
“Scaloni in tears after World Cup final defeat as leaked Infantino letter praises Argentina's 'professionalism' amid brawl probe.”
The contrast is stark: while Scaloni fights back tears over his future, Infantino’s seal of approval has infuriated fans who expect sanctions. FIFA is yet to reach a verdict on whether Argentina’s players will face punishment for the fracas that marred the final.