Buenos Aires is beginning to look beyond Lionel Messi’s final night in Argentina colours, and the next decision at the Monumental concerns the man tasked with guiding the transition. Lionel Scaloni is in talks with the Argentine Football Association over extending a contract that expires in December 2026, with both sides optimistic that he will remain in charge.
Argentina’s 3-0 friendly victory over Benin on Tuesday at the Monumental de Núñez marked Messi’s farewell appearance for the national team. The 39-year-old’s departure from the pitch leaves the world champions facing a new cycle without the player who defined their modern era.
Scaloni, who began his work with Argentina in 2018, made clear after the Benin match that replacing Messi will require a collective response rather than an attempt to find another individual of his stature.
“The only way to make up for his absence is to have a great team, with everybody contributing,” Scaloni said. “We had his genius to unlock a match. Now we must do that with good players. We have very good players, but not the player who made that difference.
“This is a side capable of doing many things. They may not be genius moments, but I believe we can cover that loss, even though he is an unrepeatable player. I am certain we will not see anything like him on the field again, and we will always be grateful for everything he gave us and leaves behind.”
A contract discussion already under way
The first formal renewal conversation took place on 25 September, when AFA president Claudio “Chiqui” Tapia met Scaloni during the most recent international window. The federation publicly confirmed that discussions had started.
An initial proposal would keep the coach in place for two further years, through the 2028 Copa América. It would also contain an option for another two-year extension, potentially taking his spell with Argentina to the 2030 World Cup.
Nothing has yet been signed. Scaloni said after the Benin fixture that there was no new development to announce, despite the positive direction of the negotiations.
His comments nevertheless suggested a willingness to continue. Reflecting on Messi’s final period with the side, Scaloni said the forward’s standards remained a guide for those who follow.
“If everything goes well, I will still be sitting there as coach,” he said. “His legacy is enormous. Seeing him at 39, seeing the World Cup he played and the desire he showed in every game, that is the greatest example we must use to keep moving forward.”
Argentina now expect the talks to continue over the coming months, as the AFA seeks continuity from the coach who oversaw the team’s rise while preparing it for life after Messi.
