Argentina lands in Buenos Aires without Messi or Scaloni after World Cup loss

Argentina touched down in Buenos Aires on Monday with the bitter taste of a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. The flight from the U.S. carried some players, but Lionel Messi and Rodrigo de Paul -teammates at Inter Miami- were not on board, the AFA confirmed. Neither was coach Lionel Scaloni, according to local reports.

The plane landed around 6:30 p.m. (local time) with no media calls or official reception planned. Aerolíneas Argentinas said only select squad members took the direct flight from the U.S. to resume club duties or begin rest. Argentina’s last result: England 1-2 Argentina (2026-07-15), a win that capped a five-game winning streak.

Why the return was so low-key

The AFA cited "reorganization needs" after the physical and emotional toll of the tournament for the absence of key figures. Messi, 39, had already announced his retirement from the national team after the final, while De Paul and Scaloni face medical reviews and logistical adjustments. The federation stressed there would be no statements or press conferences upon arrival.

The move stood in sharp contrast to the massive 2022 celebration in Qatar, when millions took to the streets to greet the champions. This time, the mood was different: the team arrived without fanfare, greeted only by supporters who waited at the Obelisk.

Clashes at the Obelisk: water cannons, tear gas and 15 arrests

Thousands of fans gathered Sunday night at the traditional celebration site, but the night ended in unrest. Police used rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannons to disperse groups that turned violent. Fifteen people were detained, according to police sources.

"We wanted to thank the team, but some went too far," said a downtown resident. Videos showed broken windows and brief clashes, though most present chanted support for the Albiceleste deep into the night.

Milei announces public holiday to honor the team

After the final, President Javier Milei confirmed a future public holiday to celebrate Argentina’s performance at the 2026 World Cup. "We’ll set a date with the squad so everyone can celebrate properly," he said. Details on timing remain pending.

Meanwhile, the players who did return have already regrouped with their clubs. The Albiceleste closes this campaign on a five-game winning streak -5W-0D-0L in their last five matches- but with the sting of what could have been.