Scaloni defends his 'warriors' for enduring 'buckets of cold water'

Argentina's national football coach Lionel Scaloni has broken his silence following the team's World Cup final loss, expressing his regret for not securing another title for the nation. He also launched a strong defense of his players, whom he affectionately calls his "warriors," highlighting their immense effort and their ability to withstand criticism.

In a social media message shared a week after the 1-0 defeat to Spain, Scaloni reflected on the emotional toll of the tournament. "All I can say is I'm sorry for not being able to bring you another cup and give you new joy that, even for a few days, might make you forget all the ugliness of life," he wrote, accompanied by a photo with his coaching staff. He emphasized the qualities he admires in his squad: "the effort, the desire, the wanting, the 'I can,' the not giving up (even when everything gets difficult) and giving your all (even when you have nothing left)."

Scaloni particularly praised his players' resilience, stating, "Withstanding buckets of cold water (from people who don't know us), knowing how to be, wanting to stay on your feet when your legs no longer obey your brain... That is the real trophy." The coach, from Pujato in the Santa Fe province, expressed his eternal gratitude to the players, the technical staff, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) personnel, and those who worked quietly to ensure the team's comfort. He also extended his thanks to the fans for their affection.

The coach's reflection comes after an intense week marked by a mix of sadness and joy, tears and smiles, anguish and calm. Scaloni, whose contract with Argentina runs until 2030, did not comment on his future plans with the national team, which he has managed since August 2018. During his tenure, he has led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, the 2021 and 2024 Copa América tournaments, and the 2022 Finalissima.

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El aguantar baldazos de agua fría (de gente que no nos conoce), el saber estar, el querer seguir de pie cuando las piernas ya no obedecen a tu cerebro…. Ese es el verdadero trofeo.