Argentina crashed out of Russia 2018 courtesy of a 4-3 last-16 defeat to France on Sunday (AEST) to compound a poor tournament that saw it scrape into the knockout stages via a late win over Nigeria having been battered 3-0 by Croatia and only drawn with Iceland.

Aguero was dropped for the clash against Les Bleus, but did come off the bench to score late in the game.

The Manchester City striker took the time to thank his family and supporters of the national team, but Sampaoli – whose future remains shrouded in doubt – was not included in his message.

  Es momento de agradecer. A mi hijo, a mi familia y a mis amigos que me acompañaron día a día. A los que con mucho esfuerzo vinieron a Rusia para alentarnos. A todos los que desde Argentina y tantos países nos apoyaron con sentimiento y pasión. Y sobre todo a mis compañeros que son los mejores del mundo por dejar el alma en cada partido. También a los doctores, fisios, utileros y cocineros que forman parte de un gran equipo. A seguir luchando siempre y juntos. Te amo Argentina ❤🇦🇷 A post shared by Sergio Leonel Agüero (@10aguerosergiokun) on Jul 2, 2018 at 5:26am PDT

Writing on Instagram, Aguero said: "It is time to thank my son, my family and my friends who accompanied me every day. Those who with great effort came to Russia to encourage us.

"To all those who from Argentina and many countries supported us with feeling and passion. And above all my colleagues who are the best in the world for leaving their soul in every game.

"Also to the doctors, physios, props and chefs that are part of a great team. To continue fighting always and together. I love you Argentina."