player of the national team (most as captain), beating his friend Diego Simeone, in a friendly victory 1–0 against France played in the Stade de France in Paris. On 5 June 2007, in a friendly against Algeria, Ayala captained Argentina for a record 58th international, having equalled Diego Maradona's mark of 57 in the 1–1 draw against Switzerland in Basel on 2 June. On 17 July 2007, two days after playing in the 2007 Copa América Final, which ended in a 3–0 defeat to Brazil, and during which he scored an own goal, Ayala announced his retirement from international football. Ayala stated, "it has nothing to do with what happened in the final of the Copa América." Javier Zanetti took over from him as captain. After retiring Racing Club On 30 December, Ayala retired from professional football. On 21 December 2011, Ayala was hired as a football coordinator at Racing Club. In September 2013, a new management arrived, and Ayala was released on 19 September 2013. Valencia CF In December 2013, Ayala was hired as a technical director / sport director for Valencia, where he was going to be the responsible for the whole South American area. The role also involved him scouting in that area to find young talents. He left the club in the middle of 2015. Argentina On 10 January 2019, Ayala joined the technical staff of the Argentina national football team as a field assistant of manager Lionel Scaloni. Style of play Regarded as one of the best and most accomplished defenders of all time, Ayala was mainly known for his ability in the air and tenacious tackling, and also stood out for his leadership and consistency throughout his career. A complete defender, he was also noted for his speed, ability on the ball, and passing accuracy as a centre-back. Personal life Ayala is married to Veronica, and has four children: Francisco, Sofía, Pilar and Martina. Career statistics Club International Scores and results list Argentina's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Ayala goal. Honours As an assistant manager FIFA World Cup: Winner 2022 Copa America: Winner 2021, third-place 2019 2022 Finalissima River Plate Argentine Primera División: 1994 Apertura Milan Serie A: 1998–99 Valencia La Liga: 2001–02, 2003–04 UEFA Cup: 2003–04 Argentina U23 Pan American Games: 1995 Olympic Gold Medal: 2004 Individual South American Team of the Year: 1994 UEFA Club Best Defender of