Credit: ROBERTO SCHMIDT / AFP via Getty Images

(CNN)-- Lionel Scaloni, head coach of the Argentina national team, expressed his sadness after 'La Albiceleste' lost the 2026 World Cup final to Spain.

Lionel Messi's teammates, under Scaloni's guidance, suffered a 1-0 defeat to 'La Roja' at MetLife Stadium on Sunday.

In a press conference after the final, Lionel Scaloni was asked about his future, replying: 'I will speak with the president of the Argentine Football Association. I don't know if I have the energy to take on the task again.'

Visibly emotional, he said: 'It is unlikely that such a wonderful group will come together again, and that hurts me deeply. It is very difficult, truly painful. I am very sorry.'

He continued: 'I have only words of thanks and gratitude to the players. I am proud of them all. I have no blame for any of them. I am satisfied with the players.'

Regarding Lionel Messi and whether he played his last international match, the 48-year-old coach said: 'Leo is in his 39th year. It is incredible. I was sure he would play until he wanted to stop. I hope people are proud of him and the team.'

Scaloni explained: 'Messi is the best football player to ever set foot on a pitch. That is my opinion.'

Lionel Scaloni took charge of 'La Albiceleste' in 2018, winning several titles including the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 Copa América.