‘We have to keep going’: Scaloni stands firm on Argentina’s identity
Lionel Scaloni praised Argentina’s commitment, unity and playing identity after a convincing 4-0 victory over Bolivia at the Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium in Cordoba, emphasizing that the team must continue to follow its philosophy even without Lionel Messi on the pitch.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, the Argentina head coach expressed his satisfaction with how his players approached the first match of the new phase following the World Cup final defeat to Spain. Beyond the emphatic scoreline, Scaloni was particularly pleased with the team’s attitude and determination to maintain the standards established during his tenure.
Reflecting on his first conversation with the squad after their reunion, Scaloni explained that his message was consistent with the one he delivered after Argentina’s triumph in Qatar: keep moving forward, regardless of the results.
“In the first talk we had, I spoke and gave my opinion. It was very similar to the talk after Qatar, where I told them that we had won and had to keep going,” Scaloni said.
He added that the same principle applied following their disappointment against Spain.
“Now I told them the same thing. Regardless of the results we didn't want, we have to keep going,” he explained.
Scaloni also praised the players who remained committed to the national team project, stressing that everyone had the freedom to make their own decision about continuing with the squad.
“Those who didn't want to be here could say so openly, there was no problem,” he revealed, adding that he was proud of the group’s willingness to continue competing.
For the coach, the challenge of sustaining Argentina’s success is not something to fear but an opportunity to keep building on what the team has achieved.
“We’re going to keep competing, then the ball may or may not go in,” he said, emphasising his appreciation for watching the players take the field and represent the country.
‘Messi is irreplaceable’
One of the central topics of the press conference was Argentina’s future without Lionel Messi, whose influence on the team has shaped much of its recent success.
Scaloni acknowledged that the Rosario-born superstar cannot be replaced, but insisted that Argentina’s footballing identity must remain intact regardless of who is selected.
“We’ll find a way to play with the same approach, stringing passes together, keeping possession… It’s an identity that transcends who’s on the team,” he said.
“The identity is there. The challenge, so to speak, is to keep playing that way and for those who come in to understand that this is how we play. The essence is always the same, through the ball.”
His comments underline the importance of maintaining Argentina’s possession-based approach, with collective movement, passing and teamwork remaining central to the system rather than relying exclusively on the qualities of one individual.
The 4-0 victory over Bolivia offered an opportunity to put that philosophy into practice, as the coaching staff continued to explore how the team could operate with different combinations in attack.
Scaloni praises senior players’ example
Although Argentina produced an impressive performance, Scaloni avoided singling out individual players for special praise. Instead, he highlighted the contribution of the experienced members of the squad and the example they set for younger teammates.
“The boys approached the game as it should be when playing with this jersey. Everyone wants to contribute their bit. I'm happy, beyond the result, it was clear that the team has an identity and whoever plays we will respect it,” the coach said.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. He described the performance as a complete display and stressed that maintaining high standards is a matter of respecting Argentina’s history.
“In my opinion, there's no other way to approach matches. This is the way, out of respect for the history of this jersey,” Scaloni added.
The coach was particularly pleased that the senior players continued to approach the match with the same intensity and commitment expected throughout his tenure, despite the success they have already enjoyed.
“They could come in and relax, but that's not how it works. It's good for the younger players to see that; the example is much better than anything I could tell them,” he explained.
His remarks highlighted the importance of leadership within the squad as Argentina gradually introduces new faces and prepares for the next stage of its development.
New faces and more options for Argentina
Scaloni also discussed his approach to squad selection, explaining that the current priority is to evaluate individual players rather than focus exclusively on experimenting with tactical systems.
He welcomed the depth of talent available to Argentina, describing the number of options at his disposal as a source of pride rather than a problem.
“Having so many options isn't a problem, it's a source of pride. It's what we aspire to have, a large number to choose from, and the problems will come when it's time to make the final list. It's better this way,” he said.
The match also brought further opportunities for emerging players, with Román Vega, Ezequiel Fernández, Valentín Gómez, Santiago Simón and Leonel Flores among the names associated with the latest group of debutants during Scaloni’s tenure. Their inclusion continued a process that has seen 70 players make their debuts under the coach.
Scaloni described giving young footballers their first opportunity with the national team as one of the most rewarding experiences for a coach.
“I think giving players their debut is exciting for any coach, and even more so for a national team coach,” he said.
“You can see it on the boys' faces when they're about to go on; you realize everything that comes with being able to play in this shirt and everything it takes. They're privileged. For us, it's an honor to give them the opportunity, and it's the perfect time.”
Argentina look to the future
Argentina’s 4-0 win over Bolivia provided a positive result, but Scaloni’s post-match message extended beyond the scoreline. His focus remained on preserving the team’s identity, maintaining the standards set by the senior players and giving emerging talents the opportunity to establish themselves.
With Messi described as irreplaceable, the coach made clear that Argentina’s next challenge is not to find another player who can replicate the captain’s individual influence, but to ensure the team continues to function according to its established principles.
For Scaloni, the objective remains straightforward: keep competing, trust the collective and preserve the footballing identity that has defined his Argentina side
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