Argentina’s post-World Cup window has opened with Lionel Scaloni signalling that he wants to remain in charge, while preparing the national team for a gradual change of generation. The coach’s contract runs until 31 December, and his position will be discussed shortly with Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia.
A meeting still to come
Scaloni had left his future uncertain after Argentina’s World Cup final defeat to Spain, but he offered a more positive indication on Thursday about continuing with the Albiceleste.
- He said there had been no formal development yet regarding his own position.
- A meeting with Tapia is expected in the coming days to address a possible renewal.
- Scaloni stressed that both sides are willing to sit down and talk before making any announcement.
- His present agreement expires on 31 December.
Asked directly whether he wished to stay, the coach made his inclination clear: “I certainly want to be here, but there are many matters to discuss.”
New faces for Argentina’s next cycle
The friendlies have also become a testing ground for the next phase of Argentina’s international side. Scaloni believes the end of the World Cup is the right moment to begin introducing fresh players, even if many established figures remain young enough to continue.
Several newcomers have been brought into the current squad, with the staff seeking to give emerging players a meaningful place in the group rather than treating the call-ups as a short-term exercise.
“We work for the national team; we do not work for any individual,” Scaloni said, underlining the broader purpose behind the selection decisions.
De Paul and Lo Celso held back until Benin
That approach explains the planned absence of Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso from Argentina’s opening two friendlies of the international break. Both players have been selected, but neither will feature until the match against Benin on 6 October.
The Benin fixture is set to serve as Lionel Messi’s farewell, while Scaloni wants the earlier matches to give younger members of the squad their opportunity.
- De Paul and Lo Celso remain part of Scaloni’s plans.
- Their omission from the first two games is intended to create minutes for younger players.
- Both are due to return for the 6 October meeting with Benin.
- The coach said no door had been shut on either midfielder.
Scaloni compared the decision with the handling of “Fideo”, explaining that the staff want to see what other players can offer. “They have given us a great deal,” he said of De Paul and Lo Celso, adding that their longer-term place will be assessed in time.
