Mauricio Pochettino has declared Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni the best manager at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, praising his staff and the threat posed by Lionel Messi

United States manager Mauricio Pochettino has named Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni as the best coach at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Also read: Inter Miami Hijack Deal to Sign Young Star Caicedo

Pochettino made the glowing assessment on Friday, June 19, 2026, while speaking to the media ahead of the USA’s Group D match against Australia.

The Argentine tactician, who knows Scaloni’s coaching staff well, highlighted the formidable combination Argentina possess heading into the tournament.

“Many of Argentina’s players are world champions from Qatar. The coach [Lionel Scaloni] is the best one at this World Cup, and I know his staff very well, and the fans are amazing,” Pochettino said. “And then the ‘cherry’ is Messi. It’s a difficult combination to play against.”

Both teams made strong starts to the competition. The United States defeated Paraguay while Argentina overcame Algeria in their opening fixtures.

A meeting between the two sides remains possible only in the semi-final or final, provided they both top their respective groups.

Also read: Inter Miami Hijack Deal to Sign Young Star Caicedo

Pochettino’s comments reflect the high regard in which Scaloni is held across the football world following Argentina’s triumph at the 2022 Qatar World Cup and their continued success under his leadership.