Lionel Scaloni to stay as Argentina coach after verbal deal until 2031

Lionel Scaloni looks set to extend his spell as Argentina head coach after reaching a verbal agreement to remain in charge until 2031. The development emerged as the Albiceleste prepare for their 2026 World Cup knockout against Cape Verde in Miami. The Argentine Football Association pressed for a long-term commitment and held multiple meetings with Scaloni’s representatives before the squad arrived in the United States, culminating in the verbal pact.

"The AFA's position is that Scaloni should stay for life," journalist Diego Monroig said. Scaloni has asked that formal discussion of the contract be put on hold during the tournament so it does not become a distraction. "Now the coach wants to be focused on the competition, he does not want anything at all to be said about his continuity," Monroig added, noting talks will resume after the World Cup.

The next match will mark Scaloni’s 100th in charge; his record across 99 games stands at 72 wins, 18 draws and nine defeats.

Argentina, Miami

lionel scaloni, argentina, afa, verbal agreement, 2031, world cup, cape verde, miami, 100th match, 72 wins