Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni expected to make changes for England match

By Rohan Gupta — 14 July 2026 — 3 min read

Scaloni’s Emotional Leadership and Team Cohesion

Lionel Scaloni, the coach of the Argentina national team, is known for his emotional leadership style, a trait that has endeared him to his players. This approach was notably evident during the 2022 World Cup final against France. Before the match, Scaloni reportedly became emotional while delivering his team talk, leading him to ask assistant Pablo Aimar to continue the address. Another staff member, Walter Samuel, also found himself unexpectedly addressing the players. Despite the initial disarray, Samuel later described it as “the worst team talk of all-time,” the team went on to win the final.

Scaloni’s emotional displays have continued, with players affectionately calling him the “llorona” or “crybaby.” He has shown his vulnerable side during the current World Cup, notably shedding tears when Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in Argentina’s opening match against Algeria and again after the comeback victory against Egypt. Scaloni embraces this aspect of his personality, stating, “I am who I am.”

This emotional openness contrasts with traditional perceptions of machismo often associated with Argentine football. While the team still possesses a strong, assertive spirit, exemplified by players like Rodrigo De Paul, known as Messi’s ‘bodyguard’, and Cuti Romero, Scaloni’s leadership fosters a sense of family within the squad. This environment allows for shared emotions, both joy and sorrow.

The coach’s focus extends beyond strict tactical formations, prioritising player relationships and well-being. According to Leandro Paredes, Scaloni successfully manages to keep a squad of 30 players content. This relational approach, described by De Paul as “making the person better to make the game better,” is seen as a core strength of the team. Scaloni himself has stated his preference for feelings over formations, particularly after the win against Egypt, noting, “I’m a head coach to experience that. Not because I like 4-3-3.”

Tactical Adjustments and Player Management

Despite his emphasis on emotional intelligence, Scaloni and his staff are also known for their tactical flexibility and willingness to make adjustments. During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the team evolved significantly, with players like Paredes, Papu Gomez, and Lautaro Martinez losing their starting spots, while Alexis MacAllister, Enzo Fernandez, and Julian Alvarez stepped up. This adaptability continues, with Paredes being gradually reintroduced into the squad, sometimes at the expense of Thiago Almada.

Scaloni views his players as individuals rather than mere tactical pieces. This human-centric approach is highly valued by the squad, with goalkeeper Emi Martinez suggesting it makes Scaloni “the best manager in the history of the Argentine national team.” Scaloni believes that while game plans are important, football also relies on “heart, gut instinct and never giving up.”

The coach also integrates team-building activities, such as communal barbecues, into their routine. He once shortened a training session for an “asado” before a quarter-final match against Switzerland, highlighting the importance he places on fostering camaraderie. He believes these shared experiences, like the asado and drinking mate together, build a stronger team bond that lasts beyond results.

This philosophy, which prioritises identity over ideology and emotional intelligence over strict tactical prowess, contributes to the team’s strong collective spirit. The players’ desire to stay together is reflected in fan chants, which reference historical events and key figures like Diego Maradona and Messi.

Anticipated Changes for England Match

For the upcoming match against England in the World Cup, coach Scaloni is expected to implement changes to the starting eleven. Reports indicate that these adjustments are being considered to optimise the team’s performance.

One potential change involves Nicolás González starting on the left side, with Alexis Mac Allister then playing on the right. Alternatively, if Giuliano Simeone is included in the starting lineup, he would take the right wing, positioning Mac Allister on the left. Exequiel Palacios is also a candidate who could start the match.

Source: nytimes.com

Rohan Gupta

Sports Reporter