Following a heartbreaking final defeat, the Albiceleste manager hailed his captain’s unparalleled legacy while signaling a potential departure from the dugout after a historic era of dominance.
An emotional Lionel Scaloni paid a heartfelt tribute to Lionel Messi before casting doubt over his future as Argentina manager following Sunday's heartbreaking 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup final.
Spain's victory denied Argentina the chance to defend the title they won in Qatar four years ago, with Ferran Torres' extra-time winner ending the Albiceleste's reign as world champions.
After the final whistle, Scaloni struggled to contain his emotions as he reflected on both Messi's enduring greatness and his future on the Argentina bench.
Image Credit: ReutersDespite a quiet evening for the 39-year-old captain, Scaloni insisted Messi's legacy remains beyond question.
"He is 39 years old, it is unbelievable," Scaloni told reporters.
"It was always crystal clear to me that he would play until he chose to stop and that everyone would support him."
The Argentina coach also admitted he has not yet discussed Messi's international future, but urged supporters to appreciate what the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has achieved.
"I hope everyone is proud of him, because he is the best football player ever to set foot on a pitch."
Messi had inspired Argentina throughout the tournament with several decisive performances, although Spain's disciplined display restricted him as the South Americans failed to register a shot on target in the final.
Image Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via ReutersThe 48-year-old became increasingly emotional when questions turned to his position, revealing he now needs time to decide whether he has the energy to continue leading Argentina.
"I have to be honest and say that I have to take time and think about the future, because I am not sure such success can be achieved again," he admitted.
Scaloni's current contract runs until December, and while he confirmed he intends to speak with the Argentine Football Association president, he stopped short of guaranteeing he will remain in charge.
"I will talk to the president. I have an idea of what I would like to do. I will see out my contract, but I feel the need to think this through."
He added: "This place is wonderful. It is a dream place. We would never have imagined being here. But to continue you need to reset your mind and create a group like this again. That is very difficult."
Image Credit: ReutersScaloni also reflected on the final itself, acknowledging Spain deserved their victory while expressing immense pride in his players' efforts throughout the tournament.
"I feel sadness but know that we left everything out there," he said.
"I want to thank these guys eternally for giving us another World Cup final and for competing until the end. They were better, that's the truth."
"But I'll hold on to an enormous memory of what they have done and what it means to reach this stage. We have to give that enormous value because it takes so much to get here."
Unable to hide his emotions any longer, Scaloni eventually apologised before cutting his press conference short.
"Bear with me, I don't know if I can continue," he said through tears.
"It's really painful. I am very sorry."
Before leaving the room, the Argentina manager delivered one final emotional sentence that summed up the pain of the defeat.
"My soul hurts. I am sorry."
