- Lionel Scaloni is close to agreeing a new Argentina contract that is expected to run until the end of the 2030 World Cup
- Argentina have lined up home friendlies against Bolivia, Burkina Faso and Benin, with the Benin match planned as Lionel Messi’s national-team farewell
- Leandro Paredes and Scaloni have agreed to meet at Lionel Andres Messi camp to discuss the midfielder’s future with the national team
Scaloni Nears Extended Argentina Stay
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni is close to signing a new agreement with the Argentine Football Association, according to reports in the country. The proposed deal for the 48-year-old is expected to keep him in charge until the end of the 2030 World Cup.
Scaloni’s current contract runs until December 2026. His future had come under scrutiny after he hinted at a possible departure following Argentina’s 0:1 defeat to Spain in the World Cup final in July.
#SelecciónMayor Comenzaron las charlas entre el Presidente de la @afa, Claudio Tapia y el entrenador Lionel Scaloni, por la renovación de su vínculo al mando del equipo albiceleste. pic.twitter.com/2Yhki7a8Zf
— 🇦🇷 Selección Argentina ⭐⭐⭐ (@Argentina) September 25, 2026
Talks over an extension have now begun formally, with the national team confirming the discussions involving AFA president Claudio Tapia.
Record Under Scaloni
Scaloni has led Argentina since the summer of 2018, overseeing one of the most successful periods in the national team’s modern history. During his time in charge, Argentina won the 2022 World Cup and two Copa America titles.
At the latest World Cup, Scaloni guided Argentina to the final, where they were beaten by Spain. Across 104 matches under his management, Argentina have recorded 80 wins, 14 draws and 10 losses.
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Head coach | Lionel Scaloni |
| Age | 48 |
| In charge since | Summer of 2018 |
| Current contract expiry | December 2026 |
| Expected new contract length | Until the end of the 2030 World Cup |
| Matches in charge | 104 |
| Record | 80 wins, 14 draws and 10 losses |
| Major titles | 2022 World Cup and two Copa America titles |
Players Push for Continuity
Most of the Albiceleste squad have repeatedly urged Scaloni to continue in recent weeks, adding further momentum to the possibility of a renewed long-term commitment.
Leandro Paredes and Scaloni have also agreed to meet at Lionel Andres Messi camp to discuss the midfielder’s future with the national team. Paredes is currently serving a 10-match suspension, which could be reduced to 5.
Home Friendlies and Messi’s Planned Farewell
Argentina have arranged three home friendlies against Bolivia, Burkina Faso and Benin. The final match, against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, is set to carry special significance because it is planned as Lionel Messi’s farewell to the national team.
Messi, 39, retired from international football after the 2026 World Cup. His Argentina career made him the country’s record appearance-maker and goalscorer, and included the 2022 World Cup triumph and two Copa América titles. The Argentine FA is expected to turn the Benin friendly into a final celebration of his international career in front of the home crowd.
