The football world was thrown into deep sorrow on Wednesday when the news of Diego Armando Maradona’s death broke.
The globe, at large, had just lost a colossal icon who has been of immense influence to multiple generations of footballers that have succeeded him.
In deed, Diego Armando Maradona is an household name in Argentina especially for his contribution to the Albiceleste’s title-winning campaign at the 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico.
Even in Europe, El Pibe de Oro – as he’s fondly called – found his way into the hearts of many. He notably led Napoli to the only two Scudettos they’ve won till date, and won the love of even arch-rivals Real Madrid while he played for Barcelona.
Born on October 30, 1960 in Lanús – a small city on the outskirts of Argentina capital city Buenos Aires, Maradona always had that inexplicable talent that made him standout despite starting out from humble beginnings.
He made his professional debut for Argentinos Juniors just before his 16th birthday, setting a record for the youngest player to ever play in the Argentine Primera División.
His mesmerising and eye-catching displays meant his fame spread across Argentina quite quickly. After a successful five-year spell at Argentinos Juniors, he made a move to Boca Juniors – a team he had ‘always hoped to play for’ – in 1981. It was there he won his first and only Silverware in the country’s domestic league.
Maradona moved to Europe the following season, joining FC Barcelona for a then world record fee of £5 million. There he won the Copa del Rey in 1983. Meanwhile, injury bouts did not allow the Argentine legend reach his full potential at the Nou Camp.
It was in Italy with Napoli that Maradona evidently peaked in his club career. Not long after penning for the Azzurri in another World record fee of £6.9 million in 1984, the tricky left-footer was handed the captain hand band.
He however didn’t disappoint as he led Napoli to their first ever Serie A title in his third year at the side before helping them finish runners-up in two subsequent seasons. In 1989/90, he captained them to another Scudetto and helped them win the Italian Super Cup and UEFA Cup.
On the international scene, Maradona’s individual contribution to Argentina’s title-winning campaign at the 1986 World Cup proves him a case for being the greatest to ever kick the round leather.
The attacking midfielder contributed five goals and five assists to the South Amerian’s course en route glory in Mexico.
Four years later, he practically dragged the Albiceleste to the World Cup final staged in Rome where they eventually lost thanks to a late penalty kick from West Germany’s Andreas Brehme.
Maradona called it quit for international football after the 1994 FIFA World Cup in USA. Notably his last international match was against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, a game Argentina won 2-1 in the group stage.
Tributes…
Cristiano Ronaldo:
“Today I say goodbye to a friend and the world says goodbye to an eternal genius. One of the best ever. An unparalleled magician. He leaves too soon, but leaves a legacy without limits and a void that will never be filled. Rest in peace, ace. You will never be forgotten.”
Lionel Messi:
“A very sad day for all Argentines and for football. He leaves us but does not leave, because Diego is eternal.
I keep all the beautiful moments lived with him and I wanted to take the opportunity to send my condolences to all his family and friends. RIP.”
Pele:
“What sad news. I lost a great friend and the world lost a legend.
There is still much to be said, but for now, may God give strength to family members. One day, I hope we can play ball together in the sky.”
Jurgen Klopp:
“It’s like, I’m 53 years old and it feels like my entire life, he was part of it.
I saw his documentary not too long ago; Diego was a sensational guy, Maradona had some struggles, let me say it like this. I will miss both.”
Jose Mourinho:
“Don Diego… damn dude I miss you.”
Maradona is survived by five children and his former wife, Claudia Villafane. He is indeed an irreplaceable legend on whose back you can have your team, rest assured of success.
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