“The captain spoke, we were gutted”: Scaloni on dressing room, future | OneFootball

The head coach of the Argentina National Team, Lionel Scaloni, arrived this past Tuesday around noon in his hometown, Pujato, in the province of Santa Fe. A crowd of neighbors and supporters gathered outside the family home to welcome him. The coach went inside accompanied by close ones to reunite with his parents, Ángel “Chiche” Scaloni and Eulalia “Lali” Dura, and his siblings Corina and Mauro.

During his arrival, Scaloni took time to sign autographs, take pictures, and speak with the media in an improvised press conference. He explained that he will stay in town for a few days to rest and to be with his parents because of their health problems. While the local community organizes a tribute in his honor, the coach said he hopes to go for a bike ride through the town’s streets soon.

The analysis of the final against Spain

When asked about the refereeing in the deciding match, the coach avoided controversy and was blunt: “We lost because they were better. We have to admit they played better. We came in at the limit, that’s the reality.” Despite the pain of the defeat, he said he was satisfied with the squad’s effort and appreciated the unwavering support of the fans.

He also shared a reflection inspired by his 10-year-old son on how children process setbacks quickly: “We didn’t win the Cup, but we achieved unity among all of us.” Regarding the post-match atmosphere in the locker room at MetLife Stadium, the coach revealed that he did not speak: “I didn’t speak. The captain spoke (Lionel Messi), there was little to say, the sadness was great. We’ll see in September when we meet again.”

His future and the memory of reaching the final

With a current contract that expires at the end of 2026, Scaloni cast doubt on his future and Messi’s future with the Albiceleste. “I’m here until December, guys. Let’s not make noise. Yesterday and today are painful days,” he replied when asked, recalling that the next international windows will be between September and November.

Lastly, he recalled the emotional semifinal in which Argentina beat England 2-1 with goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez, following assists from Messi. “The team’s second half was spectacular and wonderful. They found strength where there was none.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.