Diego Armando Maradona is broadly considered one of many best legends in soccer historical past. Recognized for his unforgettable moments on the sector, Maradona’s legacy consists of the enduring 1986 World Cup, the place he delivered some of the exceptional performances within the match’s historical past. From the magical “Maradonian” solo aim towards England to the notorious “Hand of God,” Maradona etched his title in soccer lore. His triumphs prolonged past the worldwide stage, as he grew to become a hero in Italy with Napoli and a beloved determine in Argentina, notably among the many passionate followers of Boca Juniors and Newell’s Previous Boys.
Maradona’s illustrious profession additionally included appearances in 4 World Cups: 1982, 1986, 1990, and 1994. Regardless of his premature passing on November 25, 2020, his legacy stays vibrant, inspiring numerous gamers and followers alike. As we replicate on his unparalleled profession, one query lingers: who did Maradona himself contemplate the best?
“I believe the perfect was Di Stefano. He was higher than everybody, even me,” Maradona advised TyC Sports activities, inserting the Argentine legend above each himself and Brazil’s Pelé. “Pelé by no means wished to acknowledge Di Stefano. Pelé’s associates invented a trophy for him as soccer’s dwelling legend. I even beat Pelé in Rio for being the perfect in historical past.”
Maradona additionally cherished moments with fellow greats, recalling his jersey swaps with Dutch stars Ruud Gullit and Marco van Basten as private highlights. However his admiration wasn’t restricted to previous legends. In Lionel Messi, Maradona discovered a protégé and good friend.
Lionel Messi with the World Cup trophy after successful Qatar 2022
“I advised him the best way to plant his foot, however every thing else is his expertise,” Maradona remarked about Messi. “He delivers. I might by no means go towards Messi. I don’t criticize him. The child comes, performs, they usually say he’s Catalan as a result of he doesn’t sing the anthem. I’m his good friend.”
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Steering and unwavering assist
Maradona was not simply an idol for Lionel Messi—he was additionally a mentor. As head coach of the Argentina nationwide staff through the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, Maradona had the uncommon alternative to information Messi, fostering a relationship that prolonged past the pitch.
Maradona typically praised Messi’s character, highlighting how, regardless of being a world icon, Messi maintained humility and an unyielding dedication to the game. This emotional bond transcended criticism, forming a mutual admiration that grew to become evident in numerous moments all through their careers.
The 2022 World Cup: A shared victory
In a poignant interview months earlier than his passing, Maradona mirrored that the one accolade lacking from Messi’s resume was a World Cup title to cement his place as the best of all time. That prophecy got here true in 2022 when Messi led Argentina to glory in Qatar, an achievement he devoted to Maradona.
The picture of Messi lifting the World Cup trophy evoked recollections of Maradona’s triumph in 1986. For a lot of followers, it was a symbolic passing of the torch, uniting two eras of Argentine greatness. Messi’s victory not solely fulfilled his future but in addition honored Maradona’s indelible affect on the game, making certain that their legacies stay eternally intertwined.
