Mansion Sports – Lionel Scaloni responded to speculation regarding his own future as well as the potential retirement of several players from the Argentina national team following the painful 1-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup final.

The head coach also dismissed conspiracy theories regarding the team's harmony, while Lionel Messi chose not to take part in the public celebrations in Buenos Aires and instead returned to Rosario for private reflection.

Dismissing Rumors and Praising Team Unity

After returning to his hometown of Pujato following Argentina's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday, Scaloni spoke to TyC Sports to dismiss the various rumors circulating. While most of the squad took part in the open-top bus parade in Buenos Aires, Messi headed directly to Rosario.

When asked about the various theories circulating on social media regarding Messi's speech that had gone viral, Scaloni replied:

"I do not look at social media. I do not know anything. I have absolutely no idea what you are referring to."

He firmly denied the existence of any conflict within the squad.

"I do not believe what you are asking me. We are heading in completely different directions, my friends."

Scaloni added:

"The most important thing is that the players gave everything. They showed character by wearing this shirt, and let us preserve that. Hopefully tomorrow, when a player has to come to the National Team, he will give the same. Because that is a message."

Coping with the Disappointment of Defeat

Scaloni expressed his appreciation for the supporters who welcomed the squad upon their arrival around Ezeiza Airport, saying:

"The reception was absolutely incredible. It is difficult to accept the reality that we did not win, that is obvious. Because we have the DNA of winners, it is also important for us to recognize that we did not win and that even in defeat we remained honorable. Positive things can also be taken from a defeat."

Meanwhile, Messi expressed similar feelings through an Instagram post after breaking down in tears at MetLife Stadium.

"The pain is enormous, and these wounds will be difficult to heal. However, I choose to remember the good things: the matches that we managed to turn around by giving everything and that will always be remembered, as well as the support of the entire country, which, together with the hard work and effort of this group, brought us once again to become one of the best teams in the world."

Reflecting on the Future and the Flag Controversy

With the futures of Emiliano Martínez and Messi in the national team still uncertain, Scaloni was once again asked about the continuation of his own career as Argentina head coach.

"After going through a tournament like this, with all the things that normally happen, I think a person begins to reconsider many things."

He continued:

"Until December we are still here. The most important thing in all of this is how everything happened. The people understand that the team gave everything, and whatever happens after this... the most important thing will always be Argentina. Whether I remain in charge or not, the most important thing is this unity and this relationship."

Scaloni also responded to the controversy surrounding a flag displayed after the victory over England in the semi-finals, saying:

"I do not know anything about it. No one told us anything. I saw it just as you did."