Lionel Scaloni breaks down in tears, casts doubt on Argentina future

NEW YORK: Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni broke down in tears as he cast doubt over his future following his side's 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final here at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.

The 48-year-old had been aiming to become only the second manager in history to successfully defend the World Cup after guiding Argentina to glory in Qatar four years ago.

However, European champions Spain ended those hopes when Ferran Torres struck the decisive goal in extra time to seal the title.

Scaloni's contract with the Argentine runs until December, and the emotional coach admitted he is uncertain whether he will continue in the role.

"I will talk to the president," Scaloni said.

"I have an idea of what I would like to do. I will see out my contract and I feel the need, I don't know if something as big can be done. We need to speak this through."

The Argentina manager thanked the federation for the opportunity to lead the national team and reflected on the remarkable journey he and his squad had shared.

"I am thankful to the president for bringing me this chance of being in this place where I am at the moment. It was a dream place for everyone. We have tried up until the very last minute to give our utmost, the staff and players. I believe it's only fair that I can take this time for myself to think this through."

Fighting back tears, Scaloni added: "Bear with me, I don't know if I can continue."

"This place is wonderful, it is a dream place. We would never have imagined, including my staff, that we would be in this place.

"In order to continue you need a great deal of things, especially resetting your mind, rebooting, creating a group like this again. That is very difficult to create again."

Unable to continue, Scaloni apologised before leaving the news conference, saying: "It's really painful, I am very sorry."