Lionel Scaloni agrees to extend Argentina contract through 2030 World Cup

Prior deal was set to expire in December 2026.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 39m1 min read

What happened: The Argentine Football Association finalized terms with the 48-year-old manager to keep him in charge for another four-year cycle, per Cesar Luis Melo. The agreement ends weeks of uncertainty following Argentina's runner-up finish to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.

Why it matters: Doubts over a coaching change had grown after the international retirement of six-time World Cup veteran Lionel Messi. Since taking over in 2018, Scaloni ended the nation's 36-year World Cup drought in 2022 while adding the 2021 and 2024 Copa America crowns and the 2022 Finalissima.

By the numbers: Scaloni holds a record of 81 wins, 14 draws, and 10 losses across 105 matches in charge. Since falling to Spain in the 2026 final, Argentina has won three consecutive matches by a combined 14-0 scoreline.

What to watch: Scaloni will now oversee the Albiceleste's roster transition as preparations begin for the 2030 tournament cycle.

Sources

Yahoo Soccer 2026-10-22T06:20:12.773767+00:00

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