Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni is set to continue leading the reigning world champions until 2031, with reports indicating that he has reached a verbal agreement with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) to extend his tenure beyond the current FIFA World Cup cycle.
The development comes as La Albiceleste prepare for their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 showdown against Cape Verde in Miami, where Scaloni’s side continues its quest to successfully defend the title won in Qatar four years ago.
According to ESPN Mundial journalist Diego Monroig, discussions between Scaloni’s representatives and AFA officials took place before Argentina departed for the United States, with both parties reaching a verbal understanding over a long-term extension.
“AFA’s position has always been clear—they want Scaloni to remain in charge for as long as possible,” Monroig revealed.
“Based on the information I have received, Argentina and Scaloni arrived at the World Cup with a verbal agreement for him to remain head coach until 2031.”
Despite the positive progress regarding his future, Scaloni has reportedly requested that all formal contract negotiations be postponed until after the World Cup.
The 53-year-old is determined to keep the squad fully focused on defending their global crown, with no distractions surrounding his managerial future during the tournament.
According to Monroig, both Scaloni and AFA are expected to resume official talks once Argentina’s World Cup campaign concludes, with the verbal agreement already providing confidence that the partnership will continue.
Since taking charge of Argentina in 2018, Scaloni has transformed the national team into one of world football’s dominant forces.
The upcoming knockout clash against Cape Verde will mark his 100th match as Argentina head coach, highlighting an extraordinary spell that has delivered sustained success on the international stage.
Across his first 99 matches, Scaloni has compiled an outstanding record of 72 wins, 18 draws, 9 defeats
More importantly, he ended Argentina’s long wait for major international silverware by guiding the nation to an unprecedented run of titles, including Copa América 2021, Finalissima 2022, FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and Copa América 2024.
His tactical evolution, calm leadership and ability to build a united squad around both experienced stars and emerging talents have made him one of the most successful coaches in Argentina’s rich football history.
While Scaloni’s immediate priority remains steering Argentina through the knockout rounds of the 2026 World Cup, the reported long-term agreement signals AFA’s commitment to maintaining stability around a coach who has restored the nation’s place at the summit of world football.
Should the agreement be formalised after the tournament, Scaloni would remain in charge through the next World Cup cycle, potentially leading Argentina into the 2030 FIFA World Cup and beyond as the Albiceleste continue building on one of the most successful eras in their history.
Credit Photo : FIFA
