While Lionel Scaloni may have reached global fame as the coach who led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar 2022, his life in Mallorca is one of quiet simplicity. For over 15 years, Scaloni has balanced his high-stakes career in football with a serene, family-centered life on this Mediterranean island. For a world champion, the island offers the perfect escape — a space where he can immerse himself in family, football, and the rhythm of island life, far from the roar of the stadium and the spotlight.
A Love Story Rooted in Mallorca
Scaloni’s connection to Mallorca began in February 2008, during a loan to RCD Mallorca, where he played 34 games. But his most significant takeaway from that time wasn’t on the pitch — it was falling in love with Elisa Montero, a local volleyball player. “I met Elisa two months before returning to Lazio. I was 31 and she was 29. She played volleyball and I told her: “I like you, but I have to go back to Italy. What are you doing? Do you want to come with me?”. The next day she told me yes, she would drop everything and come with me. We went to Rome and we’ve been together for 15 years,” the Argentine coach revealed in an interview with ESPN.
Building a Life on the Island
After retiring from playing in 2015, Scaloni returned to Mallorca with his family, choosing a modest house overlooking El Toro beach in Calvià. Their home, featuring a minimalist design and wide windows for admiring Mediterranean sunsets, reflects the calm and simplicity of island life that Scaloni values.
He also made his coaching debut nearby, working with Son Caliú de Calvià Club’s youth team, where he was beloved by young players and parents alike. His dedication was evident — “He was the first to arrive and the last to leave,” recalls sports director, Rafa León.
A Passion for Cycling and the Outdoors
Mallorca is also where Scaloni pursues his other passion: cycling. He’s a regular in local cycling events, recently finishing the 167-kilometer Mallorca 312 race in record time. Although a cycling accident in 2019 left him hospitalized, it didn’t deter him. For Scaloni, the island’s landscape and opportunities for sport make it the perfect retreat.
A Life of Discreet Appearances
In contrast to his public persona, Scaloni keeps a low profile on the island. His rare appearances are almost always tied to sports. Most recently, he cheered Illes Balears Palma Futsal on to victory against the Brazilian Magnus in the final of the Intercontinental Cup. “It is an honor to have such a competitive team and a pleasure to be able to support them. Whenever I can, I come to watch the games with my children,” he said after the match. His love for the game also took him to watch Real Madrid play RCD Mallorca at Son Moix Stadium, where he was honored in January 2023 for his time as a player.
Balancing Career and Family from Afar
Though thousands of miles from Argentina’s training ground, Scaloni remains deeply connected to his national team. Yet, Mallorca provides a peaceful counterbalance to his high-profile role, a place where he can quietly enjoy family life. “In Mallorca life is very good, it is a laid-back place and people respect others a lot. The climate is very good and my wife, her family and my children are from here,” he says. And who would dare question a world champion?
Text by Sebastian Cerutti
Photo: Flickr
