Argentina seek clarity from Scaloni after Messi’s international retirement

Argentina are facing a period of uncertainty following Lionel Messi’s retirement from international football, with the future of manager Lionel Scaloni now the federation’s main concern.

The possible departure of Scaloni has become an issue after Messi’s decision to end his international career, according to Spanish newspaper AS. Argentina’s Football Association is determined to renew the manager’s contract, but the coach has yet to confirm whether he will remain beyond the end of the year.

Scaloni has become the central figure in Argentina’s project since taking charge of the national team, and his future is now closely linked to the next phase of the side’s development. The federation fears that Messi’s exit could be followed by the manager’s departure, creating further uncertainty around the team.

Scaloni raised concerns about his position in a news conference after the World Cup final, when he said: “I will continue until December, and after that I will speak with the president of the federation.. The idea is for me to stop and take a little break.”

The remarks initially caused considerable shock in Argentina, but the situation became calmer in the days that followed. Reports then emerged suggesting that Scaloni and his coaching staff would continue to lead the national-team project until the next edition of the Copa America.

However, the possibility of Scaloni leaving remains a source of anxiety, particularly now that Messi is no longer expected to lead the team. The loss of key figures has created concern about Argentina’s direction, although it should not cast doubt on the quality of the current squad.

The group still includes a large number of world champions, meaning Argentina retain a strong playing pool despite the end of Messi’s international career. The team’s next phase will therefore involve both managing the absence of its most influential player and resolving the uncertainty surrounding the coach.

Scaloni’s current contract runs until December. Under the schedule for the next international friendly window, he is due to announce the preliminary squad on 6 September. It will be the first Argentina squad selected without Messi.

The manager is expected to decide his next step at the end of the year. Meanwhile, the Argentine Football Association remains committed to extending his contract and would like him to continue in charge of the national team.

Scaloni guided Argentina through the project that followed Messi’s final international years, and his departure would represent another major change for the side as it begins life without its long-standing captain. For now, the federation’s priority is to secure the manager’s future before the transition moves into its next stage.

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