Scaloni Extends Argentina Contract Until 2030
Lionel Scaloni extends Argentina contract until July 2030, the Argentine Football Association confirmed on Thursday, ending months of uncertainty over his future with the world champions.
Scaloni, 48, led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar and to back-to-back Copa America triumphs. He had raised doubts about his future after the team’s World Cup final defeat to Spain in July. His previous contract was due to expire in December 2026.
He has now agreed fresh terms that will keep him in charge through the next World Cup cycle and beyond.
Scaloni extends Argentina contract after AFA talks
AFA president Claudio Tapia described the renewal as a positive moment for the association and Argentine football.
“We are going to officially announce the renewal of Lionel Scaloni’s coaching staff for the period from 2027 to 2030 at the helm of the Argentine National Team,” Tapia said.
“This is a joy for everyone on the AFA executive committee, as well as for all Argentinians.”
Scaloni said he was delighted to continue, describing the extension as the start of a new chapter.
“I am just as eager and excited as I was on day one, and happy to be able to continue. I’m grateful, and from now on a new process begins,” he said.
A new Argentina without Messi
The renewal comes as Scaloni builds a new-look Argentina side. Earlier this week, he named his first squad since Lionel Messi’s international retirement, selecting 28 players for the November friendlies.
Chelsea defender Aaron Anselmino, 21, received his maiden senior call-up. River Plate’s Gonzalo Montiel and Parma defender Mariano Troilo returned to the squad as Scaloni began life without the team’s long-time captain.
Argentina face Uruguay in a friendly this weekend before hosting Costa Rica next week, as preparations continue for the coming international fixtures.
Scaloni took charge in September 2018, after Argentina’s poor World Cup in Russia, and has since won four titles: the 2021 Copa America, the 2022 Finalissima, the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 Copa America. Argentina lost the 2026 final 1-0 to Spain on July 19 in New Jersey, a defeat that left him weighing his future. He will now become the first Argentina manager to lead the side at three World Cups. The renewal also brings a change to his staff, with assistant Walter Samuel leaving after eight years at his side. Argentina’s next targets are the 2028 Copa America and the 2030 World Cup.
The decision also stands out in a year of change at the top of world football. Cristiano Ronaldo has retired from international football with Portugal, and Lionel Messi won a second straight MLS Golden Boot in the United States. Manchester United have also changed their manager this season. The game’s greats are moving on, and the coaches who led them are now planning for what comes next.
The extension keeps Scaloni in charge through the next World Cup cycle, with a new generation to build around.
Frequently asked questions
How long is Scaloni’s new Argentina contract?
He has extended his deal until July 2030, covering the period from 2027 to 2030, as confirmed by the Argentine Football Association.
Why was his future in doubt?
Scaloni raised doubts about continuing after Argentina’s World Cup final defeat to Spain in July, and his previous contract was due to expire in December 2026.
What has Scaloni won with Argentina?
He led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar and to back-to-back Copa America triumphs.
Who is in his new squad?
He named 28 players for the November friendlies, his first squad since Lionel Messi’s international retirement. Chelsea defender Aaron Anselmino, 21, earned a maiden senior call-up.
