Overview
- AFA president Claudio Tapia told TyC Sports in early August 2026 that Lionel Scaloni is the federation’s “Plan A, B and C” and there is no prepared contingency to replace him.
- Scaloni has said he needs time to think and will discuss his future with the AFA as his current contract runs until December 2026.
- Tapia also said the AFA will not pressure Lionel Messi on playing at the 2028 Copa América and noted Messi’s strong 2026 World Cup showing of eight goals and four assists.
- Argentina faces a planned squad refresh after fielding one of the tournament’s oldest teams in 2026 so decisions on the coach and veteran players will shape selection for 2028 and 2030.
- Scaloni’s record since taking charge in 2018 — including two Copa América wins, the 2022 World Cup and a high win rate — raises the stakes of his choice and media reports say his wife has urged him to remain.