The moment Lionel Scaloni took over Argentina’s bench — and joined forces with Leo Messi, the heartbeat of the Albiceleste — everything changed. Their partnership delivered historic titles, global dominance, and a massive financial windfall for the Argentine Football Association. Since 2019, Argentina has earned an estimated $121 million in prize money alone.
A run of trophies that paid off big
- 2019 Copa América (third place): $8 million
- 2021 Copa América champions: $10 million
- 2022 World Cup champions: $42 million from FIFA + $10 million from CONMEBOL
- 2024 Copa América champions: $16 million
- 2026 World Cup runners‑up: $33 million
Across seven years, Argentina didn’t just win — it cashed in, turning every deep tournament run into major revenue.
A new era begins
Messi announced his retirement from the national team on Monday, August 31, closing the door on one of the most successful international careers in soccer history. Scaloni followed with a striking message after losing the 2026 World Cup final to Spain, saying that when his contract expires in December, he will “most likely step away.”
With both icons departing, Argentina enters a new chapter — one defined by transition, uncertainty, and the challenge of sustaining success without the two figures who built the modern Albiceleste identity.
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