Lionel Scaloni commits to Argentina until 2030 FIFA World Cup

Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia announced the agreement on Thursday, ending speculation over the coach's future following Argentina's defeat to Spain in this year's World Cup final.

Scaloni, who led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022, said he remained as motivated as when he first took charge of the national team.

"I am as enthusiastic as on day one. A new project begins now," the 48-year-old said.

His decision comes at the start of a new era for Argentina following Lionel Messi's retirement from international football. The 39-year-old had been the team's leading figure for two decades.

Scaloni took charge in September 2018, following Argentina's disappointing last-16 exit at the World Cup in Russia. Despite having no previous experience as a senior international manager, he transformed the team into one of the strongest sides in the country's history.

Under his leadership, Argentina won the 2021 and 2024 Copa America titles before claiming the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

However, his future became uncertain after Argentina's 1-0 defeat to Spain in a bad-tempered World Cup final in New Jersey on July 19.

Scaloni now faces the challenge of rebuilding the team without Messi while maintaining the winning mentality that has delivered major international honours.

Following the final defeat, he stressed the importance of keeping the unity that has been central to Argentina's success.

"What must remain is this team spirit, this feeling of unity among the players and the people," he said.

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