In a surprising turn of events, Lionel Scaloni, the head coach who guided Argentina to World Cup victory, has hinted at the possibility of resigning from his position after five years at the helm.
The revelation came following Argentina’s 1-0 triumph over Brazil in a World Cup qualifying match held in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday. Despite leading the team to glory in the 2021 Copa America and the recent World Cup in Qatar, Scaloni expressed the need for introspection.
“Argentina needs a mentor who has all the energy conceivable and who is well,” Scaloni commented. “I need to stop the ball and start thinking; I have a lot of things to consider during this time.”
While emphasizing that it’s not a definitive farewell, Scaloni acknowledged the challenges of maintaining success and the high expectations associated with the role.
“These folks are making it troublesome, so I want to consider it for some time. I will converse with the FA president and the players subsequently,” he added.
Scaloni assumed the role of Argentina’s head coach in August 2018, succeeding Jorge Sampaoli after a brief stint with the under-20 side. Under his guidance, Argentina clinched the 2021 Copa America, ending a 28-year title drought. The team went on to secure their third global title with a World Cup victory in Qatar in 2022, marking their first triumph since 1986.
Despite the recent success, uncertainty looms over Scaloni’s continuation. Argentina and Tottenham defender Cristian Romero expressed hope that Scaloni would stay on, stating, “We are sure and hope that Scaloni will continue. Let’s see now; he have opportunity and energy to think.”
Romero added that Scaloni did not disclose his intentions in the dressing room after the match and hinted at the team’s efforts to convince him to stay.