London: Lionel Scaloni has agreed to extend his contract as Argentina head coach until July 2030, with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirming the agreement and ending speculation surrounding his future.
The 48-year-old, who guided Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title in Qatar and consecutive Copa America triumphs, will continue leading the national team under the new agreement, having previously been contracted until December 2026.
Scaloni’s future had come under uncertainty after Argentina’s reported defeat to Spain in the World Cup final in July, prompting questions about whether he would continue in charge. However, the latest agreement ensures continuity in the national team’s coaching setup through the next World Cup cycle.
AFA president Claudio Tapia welcomed the development, describing the renewal as an important moment for Argentine football.
“We are going to officially announce the renewal of Lionel Scaloni’s coaching staff for the period from 2027 to 2030 at the helm of the Argentine National Team,” Tapia said.
He added that the agreement was a source of happiness for the AFA executive committee and football supporters across Argentina.
Scaloni also expressed his satisfaction at continuing in the role, insisting that his enthusiasm for the job remains unchanged.
“I am just as eager and excited as I was on day one, and happy to be able to continue. I’m grateful, and from now on a new process begins,” he said.
The contract extension comes as Argentina prepare for their upcoming international fixtures, with Uruguay scheduled to visit for a friendly this weekend before the world champions host Costa Rica next week.
Scaloni has also begun shaping his squad for the next phase of the national team’s development. Earlier this week, he announced a 28-member squad for the November friendlies, marking his first selection since Lionel Messi’s reported retirement from international football.
Chelsea defender Aaron Anselmino has received his maiden senior international call-up at the age of 21, while River Plate’s Gonzalo Montiel and Parma defender Mariano Troilo have returned to the squad.
With Messi’s international future no longer part of the immediate plans, Scaloni faces the task of developing the next generation while maintaining Argentina’s status among international football’s leading teams.
The new contract provides the coach with an opportunity to oversee that transition and continue the project that has delivered major international success for Argentina.
