Argentina Football Association (AFA) president Claudio Tapia has thrown his full support behind Lionel Scaloni, declaring the World Cup-winning coach remains his “plan A, B and C” despite growing uncertainty over the manager’s future.
Speaking to TyC Sports, Tapia revealed contract talks with Scaloni had reached an advanced stage before the coach decided to take time to reflect following Argentina’s heartbreaking defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
“I love Gringo very much. He went through some tough times here,” Tapia said, using Scaloni’s nickname. “We all want him to stay. The talks were very advanced.”
Scaloni admitted after the World Cup final that he was unsure whether he could achieve anything greater with Argentina after guiding the Albiceleste through the most successful era in their modern history.
Acknowledging the coach’s emotional state, Tapia insisted there was no pressure for an immediate decision.
“Everyone has their own time to grieve,” he said. “We speak regularly, and I hope he stays.”
The AFA president also dismissed any suggestion that Argentina were preparing for life without Scaloni.
“My plan A, B and C is Scaloni,” Tapia said, making it clear the federation has no alternative candidate in mind.
Tapia credited the 48-year-old with transforming the national team into a symbol of unity and pride across the country.
“People identified with this group, and the nation has never experienced so much joy as with this national team,” he said. “Perhaps my greatest success was choosing who leads the national team and standing by him.”
Scaloni initially took charge on an interim basis in 2018 after working under Jorge Sampaoli before earning the role permanently.
Since then, he has guided Argentina to the 2022 World Cup, Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, the 2022 Finalissima and another World Cup final appearance in 2026.
His current contract expires in December, with Argentina scheduled to play three friendlies during the September-October FIFA window and two more in November.
Tapia expects discussions over a new deal to continue during those camps, with keeping Scaloni at the helm remaining the AFA’s top priority.
