Lionel Scaloni, who steered the Argentina national team to glory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, earned a nomination for Best Coach in FIFA’s awards. The recognition places him among the league of great managers in world football, alongside Carlo Ancelotti of Real Madrid and Josep Guardiola of Manchester City, who were also honored in the same category.
Argentina’s success story continues off the pitch as well, with the Argentine Football Federation confirming on February 27 that Scaloni’s contract will run through 2026. He has devoted his career to the national team since 2017, initially serving on the coaching staff under Jorge Sampaoli before taking the reins in 2018. Under Scaloni’s guidance, Argentina captured the Copa America title and then the historic World Cup victory, cementing his status as a pivotal figure in the nation’s football narrative.
The World Cup final in Qatar saw Argentina defeat France in a dramatic contest that finished 2–2 after regulation and extra time. The decisive moments came in the penalty shootout, where Argentina held their nerve to prevail 4–2, showcasing precision and composure when it mattered most.
This triumph marked Argentina’s third World Cup crown, following success in 1978 and 1986. The victory not only added another trophy to the country’s storied football legacy but also reinforced Scaloni’s reputation as a coach who can build cohesive teams capable of thriving on the world stage in high-pressure moments.
In other football news, Alexander Golovin, the former Russian midfielder, extended his contract with Monaco through 2026. The new deal follows Golovin’s prior agreement, which expired in the summer of 2024, signaling Monaco’s continued belief in his role as a central figure in the squad while maintaining stability for the coming seasons. The extension underscores the ongoing strategy of clubs to retain core players who contribute both on and off the pitch, helping shape long-term performance and identity for the team.