After concluding their 2026 World Cup journey as runners-up, manager Scaloni sent an emotional open letter to the fans. He expressed his gratitude for the affection shown to the Argentina national team, while also apologizing for failing to successfully defend the title.
Opening the letter, he wrote: “After a turbulent week, where sadness mingled with joy, tears with smiles, suffering with serenity, anxiety with calm, I can finally sit down to write a few lines.
You all probably know I don’t care much for social media, but perhaps this is the best way to address everyone. I can only say that I am deeply sorry for not being able to bring a new joy. Even if only for a few days, that joy could help you forget all the bad things in life.”
However, he immediately emphasized what he considers the team’s greatest achievement, far transcending sporting results. Scaloni wrote: “But I want you to remember what we tried to demonstrate through this group of players. These are warriors, as I called them when speaking about them with my wife.”
Scaloni also listed the values that, according to him, the entire team demonstrated throughout the tournament: “Throughout the tournament, the players showed effort, ambition, willpower, and a fighting spirit, refusing to give up even when things got difficult.
They always gave their all even when there was nothing left. They endured cold water thrown at them by people who do not know us. My players know how to conduct themselves, wanting to stand tall when their legs no longer obey their mind. That is the real trophy.”
In the final part of the post, the manager expressed his thanks to everyone who accompanied them on the World Cup journey: “I am immensely grateful to the coaching staff, the players, and the staff of the Argentine Football Association (AFA). Thank you to those who worked quietly behind the scenes to keep us comfortable, and to each and every one of you for the affection received.”
