Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella expected to leave after taking team to World Cup final
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}FILE - In this July 1, 2014, file photo, Argentina's head coach Alejandro Sabella signals to his players during the World Cup round of 16 soccer match between Argentina and Switzerland at the Itaquerao Stadium in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Sabella reported for several weeks to be ready to resign from the job and is expected to make it official on Wednesday July 30, 2014. (AP Photo/Victor R. Caivano, File) (The Associated Press)
Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella is expected to resign Wednesday, ending weeks of speculation about his future following his country's loss in the World Cup final.
The Argentine Football Association said Sabella will hold a news conference Wednesday. The federation did not confirm his resignation, but local media report he is leaving.
Gerard Martino and Jose Pekerman have been mentioned as possible replacements. Martino coached Paraguay's national team and most recently Barcelona. Pekerman coached Argentina at the 2006 World Cup and took Colombia to this year's quarterfinals.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Sabella began coaching Argentina in 2011, succeeding Diego Maradona. Argentina lost to Germany 1-0 in this month's final. Sabella has talked of being worn out since the World Cup, saying he needs a rest.