Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni. File photo.
Buenos Aires: Lionel Scaloni will remain in charge of Argentina until the 2030 FIFA World Cup after signing a contract extension, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced yesterday.
AFA president Claudio Tapia confirmed the new deal at a press conference, saying Scaloni would become Argentina's manager with the most World Cup appearances by the time his contract expires.
The 48-year-old guided Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar before leading them to this year's final in North America, where they lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time.
Scaloni had indicated after the defeat that he could step down, saying he would stay until December before possibly leaving the role.
However, he has now opted to continue the journey he began as caretaker coach after the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Argentina's campaign in North America was more challenging than their triumphant run in Qatar, as they had to overcome Cabo Verde, Egypt, Switzerland and England in the knockout rounds before falling short against Spain in the final.
“I'd like to thank Claudio Tapia and everyone at the AFA for trusting me. It's what we all wanted at this moment,” Scaloni said.
