Juliano Simeone has issued an emotional apology to Argentina fans for “not being able to bring the trophy” home after their 1-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup final – and has congratulated the new champions.
The 23-year-old midfielder, who came on as a second-half substitute in the final of the 2026 tournament, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram alongside a picture of himself sitting on the pitch.
“There are no words to describe the pain I feel in these moments… I can only apologise for not being able to bring the cup to you,” Simeone wrote after Spain’s narrow victory denied Argentina back-to-back world titles.
Emotional message to a nation
Simeone, a member of the Argentina squad coached by Lionel Scaloni, used his post to address supporters across the country and around the world.
“I thank the Argentine fans for all the support throughout the World Cup, in the stands and from afar,” he said, acknowledging the backing the team received during their run to the final.
The Atletico Madrid player, son of club coach Diego Simeone, featured in three matches at the tournament. He started in the group-stage match against Jordan and the semi-final against England, before being brought on in the second half of the showpiece against Spain, replacing Rodrigo De Paul.
Despite the disappointment of losing the final by a single goal, Simeone stressed how much the squad had given during the campaign under Scaloni’s leadership.
“Thank you to this group for giving absolutely everything in every match, and for putting your soul on the line for more than 46 million Argentines,” he wrote.
Pride amid heartbreak
Diego Simeone, who manages his son at Atletico Madrid, was present at Argentina’s World Cup games, closely following Juliano’s progress on the global stage.
The younger Simeone reflected on the emotional contrast between the present pain of defeat and the pride he believes will endure with time.
“Today is a sad moment, but I am sure that with the passing of time we will remember with pride everything we experienced together in this tournament,” he explained.
Argentina, reigning world champions heading into the 2026 edition, advanced to the final after navigating the group stage and overcoming England in the semi-finals, but they were ultimately denied by Spain’s resilient performance in the decider.
Respect for new champions
Simeone ended his message by publicly recognising Spain’s achievement, underlining the respect between the two footballing giants.
“Congratulations to Spain on the World Cup,” he concluded.
The midfielder’s remarks encapsulate the mood of a squad and a nation coming to terms with a painful defeat, while also highlighting the unity, effort and mutual respect that marked Argentina’s World Cup journey.
