Scaloni extends Argentina contract through 2030

Lionel Scaloni will remain Argentina’s national team coach through 2030 after agreeing to a contract extension announced by Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia at a press conference on November 12. The deal covers the period from 2027 to 2030, Tapia said, and keeps Scaloni in charge through the next World Cup, scheduled for 2030.

Scaloni said his motivation remained the same as when he took charge in 2018. He described the next phase as a new era for the team, with opportunities for younger players. Lionel Messi has retired from international football, and reports described the renewal as the start of a cycle without the longtime captain.

The extension follows a run in which Argentina won the 2021 and 2024 Copa América titles and the 2022 World Cup. Scaloni’s team also won the 2022 Finalissima, according to the reports. The 2026 World Cup final against Spain was described as a defeat for Argentina; the extension puts Scaloni in position to lead the team at the 2030 tournament if he completes the term.

Tapia said that, should Scaloni remain for the full contract, he would manage Argentina at three World Cups. That would include the 2022 tournament, the 2026...