After their narrow escape from the group stages, more pessimistic Argentina fans will have accepted that it was only a matter of time before their World Cup came to an end.

While Sergio Aguero's injury-time goal threatened to make things interesting, he and his team-mates were eventually well-beaten in a 4-3 defeat to France in the last-16.

Kylian Mbappe was the name on everyone's lips as the 19-year-old's masterclass left the South Americans' defence horribly exposed.

However, as far as supporters of the Albiceleste were concerned, it was a case of calling for Jorge Sampaoli's head, rather than enjoying the brilliance of their opponents.

The former Sevilla coach has endured a disastrous spell in charge of the national team and were it not for a Lionel Messi hat-trick in qualifying, they might not have made it to this summer's tournament at all.

A 3-0 mauling at the hands of Croatia in Group D was a particular low point.

Both Marca and the Mirror have now shed some light on what the future holds for the beleaguered manager, with the Spanish publication claiming he wants to stay on as he thinks he is only midway through his project.

To his advantage is the fact that sacking him would mean a 15 million euro payout for the Argentinian FA, who would much rather he resign.

Why is Sampaoli still in Russia? 

Bizarrely, the English newspaper further report that he did not even travel back to his homeland with the rest of the squad, claiming that he would stay on in Russia and watch the likes of Brazil in preparation for next year's Copa America.

However, the real reason is allegedly because he is hesitant about returning to Argentina until some of the anger surrounding their performances has died down.

There were plenty of warning signs that the 58-year-old had completely lost authority, with his squad reportedly in mutiny at his team selections and tactical decisions.

Against Nigeria, he was even caught on camera asking Messi whether he should bring Aguero on, which speaks volumes about his lack of control over the players.

To make matters worse, in the 15 matches in which he has taken charge, he has never once repeated the same starting line-up.

There have also been persistent eyebrows raised over his handling of Messi, who barring one moment of excellence in the Nigeria game failed to reach his usual level.

If rumours are to be believed that Argentina are already weighing up their options as to who should replace him in the hot seat, then Sampaoli's days are clearly numbered.

Do you blame Sampaoli for Argentina's problems? Have your say in the comments.