After the shock caused by his emotional press conference after the final of the 2026 World Cup, Lionel Scaloni spoke publicly again. This time he did so with a more relaxed tone before returning to Pujato, his hometown, to refer to the present of the Argentine National Team, respond about his future, and dismiss the rumors that arose around the defeat against Spain.
The coach was asked about the theories that began to circulate on social media regarding the final, especially concerning Lionel Messi's speech and the team's performance. However, he made it clear that he does not pay attention to them. "I don't see social media. I don't know anything. I have no idea what you're telling me", he replied, seeking to put an end to any speculation.
He appeared more uncomfortable when asked if there was any conflict within the squad. "I can't believe what you're asking me. We're going off on another tangent, guys", he answered before highlighting the attitude of his players. "The important thing is that the boys have given their all, they have shown character with this jersey, and we should focus on that. I hope that one day, when a player comes to the National Team, it will be the same. Because it's a sign".
Scaloni also appreciated the reception the Argentine delegation received upon their return to the country, with thousands of fans supporting the team in Ezeiza despite the defeat. "The reception was impressive. It's hard to digest that you didn't win, that's clear. As we carry the winning DNA, it's also good for us to know that we didn't win and that in defeat we are also noble. You can also take positive things from defeat", he stated.
The inquiries about his continuity and that of key players like Messi and Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez were also present. In this regard, he acknowledged that it is normal to ask questions after a tournament of such magnitude. "After a tournament like this with normal things, I think one reconsiders things".
Nevertheless, he clarified what his immediate outlook is. "Until December, we are here. The most important thing about all this is how things turned out. The people understood that the team gave everything, and then what happens later... the most important thing is always Argentina. Whether I am here or not in the position, the most important thing is this unity, this connection. I don't know if we have regained it; I believe we never lost it".
The coach also reiterated the sentiment he had already expressed, in tears, after the World Cup final. "Seriously, the most important thing now is this. This is a dream place. Not even in my wildest dreams would I have thought I would be here for the first time. I had never coached anywhere, that's the reality. They gave me that opportunity, and then achieving everything we achieved is a dream. It's a place anyone would want to be".
In another part of the conversation, he highlighted the legacy that, in his view, this cycle has left beyond the sporting result. "I don't know if there have ever been cracks with the National Team. The National Team is the maximum for any footballer and fan. What this team has left is something very beautiful for the people, for the kids, the little ones. That's the most important thing. Yesterday, when we were on the bus, seeing those ten-year-old kids who were happy, even without having won, is something wonderful".
When asked about the banner with the inscription "The Malvinas are Argentine" that the players displayed after the semifinal against England and that could lead to a FIFA investigation, Scaloni assured that he was unaware of the initiative. "I have no knowledge; they didn't tell us anything. I saw it (the banner) like you did".
Before saying goodbye, the coach explained that he will now seek to rest with his family. "I want to be with them; I want to see them". Then the time will come to return to work with the National Team. "In September, I have to be at the training ground", he concluded, looking ahead to the next FIFA date, in which Argentina will play two friendlies against opponents and at venues yet to be confirmed.
