Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni says his team is in good shape ahead of the 2026 World Cup and believes the strong bond within the squad gives them an edge as they prepare to defend their title.
In an interview with Ole, Scaloni spoke about Argentina’s readiness, his future with the national team and the pressure that comes with being world champions.
Scaloni said the team has a solid base of players who have been together for years. He feels that understanding helps the squad deal with problems and adapt quickly during tournaments.
“We’re doing well. Fortunately, we have a foundation, we have many players, I’d say 60-70%, who are always the same. And that helps so that when you get together, all those doubts fade away,” he said.
The coach added that every national team faces concerns before a World Cup. However, he believes Argentina have arrived in good condition and are ready for the challenge.
Scaloni also spoke about his father and the influence he had on his life and career. He recalled how his father predicted many years ago that he would one day coach Argentina.
“My dad is a guy who isn’t afraid of anything. At all. 12 or 15 years ago he used to say: ‘Leo is going to coach the Argentina National Team someday.'”
He said his father always encouraged him to keep moving forward, no matter the result. That attitude helped him through difficult moments and shaped the way he approaches football today.
Scaloni praised his father’s strength and said he remains a fighter despite facing many challenges in life. He also said he wants his children to stay connected to their Argentine roots even though they were born in Spain.
The 48-year-old admitted there is pressure in defending a World Cup title, but he sees it as part of representing Argentina. He said expectations have always been high whenever the national team enters a major tournament.
Scaloni pointed to the 2022 World Cup as proof that success often depends on small moments. Argentina lost their opening match but recovered to lift the trophy. He believes many teams have a real chance of winning this year’s tournament.
When asked about the favourites, Scaloni listed several strong contenders. He named Spain, France, Portugal, England, Brazil, Colombia, Uruguay and Croatia among the teams capable of going far in the competition.
The coach also addressed speculation about his future. He said he has a very good relationship with the Argentine Football Association and there is no reason for concern at the moment.
Scaloni made it clear that discussions about his contract can wait until after the World Cup. For now, his full focus remains on the tournament.
“It will be resolved after the World Cup. Our minds are set on our own matters right now,” he said.
Before Argentina begin their title defence, Scaloni delivered a message to the supporters. He promised that the players would give everything on the field and represent the country with pride.
“We’re going to give it our all, because this team is capable of taking on the challenge,” he said.
Argentina will begin the World Cup as one of the favourites and will look to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the trophy.
