I’ll Continue As Argentina Coach Until AFA Decides Otherwise – Says Lionel Scaloni

Argentina coach, Lionel Scaloni, is fully dedicated to continuing to lead the national team and anticipates remaining in his position until AFA President Claudio Tapia chooses otherwise.

There was some controversy when Scaloni mentioned his potential resignation after Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Brazil in a 2026 World Cup qualifier in November.

According to local media reports in January, the coach had reportedly confirmed his decision to stay in his role until the conclusion of the Copa America, scheduled from June 20 to July 14 in the United States.

Lionel Scaloni told reporters on Sunday that he plans to remain in charge following the continental tournament.

“I was not having a good year and I felt it was time to stop the ball. Today I’m here with all my energy, which, to be honest, was not the case in November,” he said. “As long as the president of the AFA wants me to be here, I’ll be here.”

Scaloni provided an update on Lionel Messi’s fitness and explained his choice to exclude Paulo Dybala from the 29-man squad for their upcoming friendlies.

“The good thing is that Messi has had continuity in his team (Inter Miami), especially after his injury. That’s important, that he gets more minutes. We see him at full fitness. He will join the squad for training tomorrow,” he said.

“We have a special affection for him (Dybala), but we always say that the team comes first. Given the circumstances and the fact that we had problems in some positions, we decided not to include him. We know what he has given us. With all the pain in the world, this is the decision we have taken”. He stated.

Argentina will play against Ecuador at Soldier Field in Chicago on June 9 and then face Guatemala at Commanders Field in Washington five days later as part of their preparations for the Copa America title defense.

Their Copa America campaign begins with a match against Canada on June 20 in Group A, followed by games against Chile and Peru.