Just one week after the Argentina national team lost the World Cup final in the United States, Canada, and Mexico to Spain, thanks to an extra-time goal by Ferran Torres, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni posted a message on Instagram in which he apologized to Argentine fans, thanked his squad for their effort, and took a subtle jab at certain people.
Scaloni begins by saying:
“After an intense week in which sadness and joy, tears and smiles, anguish and peace, nerves and calm have all been intertwined, I can finally sit down to write a few words. Even though you know I'm not very fond of social media, this may be the best way to reach you.”
The coach continues:
“All I can say is that I'm sorry I couldn't bring you another trophy and give you another reason to celebrate—something that, even if only for a few days, might have helped you forget the harsh realities of life. But I want you to remember what we tried to show you through this group of players, my warriors, as I always described them when talking about them with my wife.”
He goes on to say:
“The effort, the determination, the desire, the belief that ‘I can do it,’ never giving up (even when everything becomes an uphill battle), giving everything you have (even when you have nothing left), enduring bucketfuls of cold water thrown at you (BY PEOPLE WHO DON'T EVEN KNOW US), carrying yourself with dignity, and wanting to stay on your feet when your legs no longer obey your mind... That is the real trophy.”
He concludes with:
“I will be forever grateful to my coaching staff, my players, the AFA staff, those who quietly work behind the scenes to make sure we have everything we need, and to every one of you for the affection you've shown us.
P.S. Whoever has an Argentine friend has a treasure.”
