Scaloni discloses lingering health issues after World Cup win

Argentina's national team coach Lionel Scaloni told the newspaper Olé that the intense physical and emotional demands of the Qatar 2022 World Cup left him with lasting health problems. He said three months after the tournament his body began to show “secuelas,” identifying a bout of herpes zoster as a direct consequence of the stress endured during the competition.

Assistant coach Pablo Aimar, speaking to FIFA, praised captain Lionel Messi as “extraordinary” and highlighted the continuity and success built under Scaloni’s leadership, noting Argentina’s recent Copa América and World Cup titles and their 3‑0 opening victory over Algeria in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Aimar also expressed personal admiration for both Messi and Scaloni, calling the coach a key figure in forming a united and confident squad.