Lionel Scaloni, the head coach of the Argentine national team, could not hold back his tears after losing the 2026 World Cup title to Spain by a single goal to nil, emphasizing that the defeat left a deep wound inside him, while also hinting that his future with 'Albiceleste' remains uncertain.

Scaloni said during the post-match press conference: 'In truth, my soul hurts a lot. I feel a great internal pain. Being here requires resetting things and starting to build a strong group like this one, which will be very difficult.'

The Argentine coach talked about Lionel Messi, praising what the team captain delivered despite losing the final, saying: '39 years old, guys! It's incredible. I knew he would continue playing as long as he wanted, and his teammates and fans would give everything for him.'

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He added: 'I hope Messi is proud of his teammates, and I believe he is. I also hope the fans are proud of this team and everything it has achieved. For me, Messi is the best player to ever set foot on a football pitch, and what he did in this edition was amazing, but he didn't need it to confirm his status.'

Regarding his future with the Argentine national team, Scaloni stirred controversy after saying: 'I have a contract until December, after which I will stop to give the opportunity to someone else.'

He continued: 'The idea is to stop and relax. I want to step away a bit. This is a wonderful and amazing place, and I hope others get this opportunity. Any Argentine would wish to be here. It has been my pleasure and privilege to be here, and it exceeds my wildest dreams. I never imagined it.'

He concluded: 'This may seem like a farewell, but at the same time there is a desire to continue. However, as I said, I am staying until December, and then we will see what happens.'

Scaloni had previously succeeded in leading Argentina to win the World Cup in the previous edition, defeating France on penalties.