Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final appears to have had repercussions within the Albiceleste camp. Argentine media are reporting tensions in the dressing room, with Inter Milan forward Lautaro Martinez in the spotlight.
Lautaro is reportedly furious with coach Lionel Scaloni after not playing a single minute in the 1-0 final defeat to Spain. The striker watched the entire match from the bench, while the coach's decisions during extra time have sparked debate.
In the 102nd minute, Scaloni decided to bring on defender Marcos Senesi in place of Julian Alvarez, strengthening the defensive line. Just four minutes later, Ferran Torres scored the goal that gave Spain the world title.
After the match, some Argentine media reported that Lautaro reacted angrily in the locker room, addressing the coach in harsh tones and throwing objects in anger.
However, these reports have not been confirmed by the Argentine Federation, technical staff or footage, so for now they remain only allegations.
Lautaro himself did not hide his disappointment with the way the final was managed.
"We fought. We played in the World Cup final for the second time in a row, but this time we didn't make it. I would have liked to have helped the team on the pitch, but..."
His statement was interpreted by many media outlets as an indirect message to coach Lionel Scaloni.
The striker's dissatisfaction becomes even more understandable considering that it was Lautaro Martinez who scored the decisive goal in the semi-final against England, ensuring Argentina's qualification to the final.
