21 fun facts about Diego Maradona
Diego Armando Maradona was an Argentine professional football player and manager. He was widely recognised for his exceptional skills and leadership on the field. As an advanced playmaker in the number 10 position, Maradona possessed remarkable vision, precise passing, exceptional ball control, and impressive dribbling abilities. Despite his small stature, he utilized his low center…
Diego Armando Maradona was an Argentine professional football player and manager. He was widely recognised for his exceptional skills and leadership on the field.
As an advanced playmaker in the number 10 position, Maradona possessed remarkable vision, precise passing, exceptional ball control, and impressive dribbling abilities. Despite his small stature, he utilized his low center of gravity to maneuver with unparalleled agility.
His presence and guidance greatly influenced his team’s overall performance, often making him the target of the opposition. Alongside his creative talents, Maradona also possessed a keen eye for goal and was recognized as a free kick specialist.
Maradona’s journey extended beyond his playing career as he transitioned into coaching. He took charge of Argentina’s national football team in November 2008 and led them during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa before departing at the tournament’s conclusion.
Subsequently, he served as the coach of Al Wasl, a Dubai-based club in the UAE Pro-League, for the 2011-12 season. In 2017, Maradona assumed the role of coach for Fujairah, but left at the end of the season.
In May 2018, he was appointed as the chairman of Belarusian club Dynamo Brest, commencing his duties in July after arriving in Brest. From September 2018 to June 2019, Maradona held the position of coach for Mexican club Dorados.
Finally, he became the coach of Argentine Primera División club Gimnasia de La Plata in September 2019, a role he held until his unfortunate passing in 2020. Check out some incredible facts about Maradona.
1. Was born in Argentina
Diego Maradona, was born on October 30, 1960, in Lanus, Buenos Aires, Argentina. With his exceptional skills and remarkable accomplishments, he has become a highly respected figure in the realm of soccer.
2. He made his professional debut at the age of 16
Diego Maradona commenced his professional journey at the tender age of 16. In 1976, he embarked on his professional career with Argentinos Juniors, where he astounded everyone with his extraordinary skills at such a remarkably young age.
3. “Hand of God” goal
Maradona made headlines by scoring the notorious “Hand of God” goal in the 1986 World Cup quarterfinals. This controversial move involved him punching the ball into the net during the match against England, ultimately securing a 2-1 victory for Argentina.
4. Goal of the Century
Maradona’s second goal against England, scored just four minutes after the infamous ‘Hand of God’ incident, during the quarter-final match of the 1986 World Cup, showcased his exceptional dribbling skills as he effortlessly bypassed opposition defenders before ultimately defeating Peter Shilton to secure a 2-0 lead. FIFA recognized this remarkable goal as the Goal of the Century.
5. Rivals with Pele
The Maradona-Pele rivalry took an interesting turn in 2000 when FIFA introduced the Player of the Century award for the new millennium. After much deliberation, it was decided that both Pele and Maradona would share this prestigious accolade.
However, Pele’s response to this decision was rather intriguing as he stated, “If he thinks he’s the best player of the century that’s his problem.”
6. Refused to attend World Cup opening ceremony
Diego Maradona declined the invitation to attend the opening ceremony of the 2006 World Cup in Germany, stating: “I’m not here to look at bloody Pele walking around.”
7. International debut
At the Bombonera stadium in Buenos Aires, on February 27, 1977, Maradona had his first international appearance at the age of 16, facing Hungary.
8. Was known for his dribbling skills
Maradona’s exceptional dribbling abilities and agility on the pitch were widely recognized. His finesse and precision in maneuvering past opponents made him a captivating player to watch, captivating fans across the globe.
9. Won Fifa World Cup in 1986
In 1986, Maradona achieved a remarkable feat by guiding Argentina to a triumph in the FIFA World Cup. His exceptional display on the field not only secured the victory for his team but also garnered him the prestigious Golden Ball award for being the top player of the tournament.
10. Fans celebrate his birthday
In 1998, enthusiasts established the “Church of Maradona” in Buenos Aires. Each year, Maradona’s birthday on October 30th is celebrated as 60 D.D [“despues de Diego”], which translates to ‘After Diego’.
11. He failed a dope test
Maradona’s participation in the 1994 World Cup in the USA was cut short due to a failed doping test. Despite playing just two games and scoring a goal against Greece, he was sent home from the tournament.
12. Maradona played for a lot of top clubs
Maradona represented top clubs like Barcelona, Napoli, and Boca Juniors throughout his successful career, making a lasting impact on each team he joined.
13. Had a lot of honors
Maradona’s outstanding talent and impact on the sport led to him receiving multiple accolades, such as the FIFA Player of the Century award, showcasing his legacy as one of the top footballers in history.
14. Struggle with drug addiction
Maradona faced challenges with drug addiction for the duration of his life. Despite achieving great success in his career, his struggle with substance abuse had a profound effect on both his personal and professional life.
15. Over 300 goals
Throughout his career, he managed to score more than 300 goals, showcasing his exceptional talent as a goal scorer.
16. FIFA World Player of the Year
Maradona was honored with the FIFA World Player of the Year award twice, in acknowledgment of his exceptional performances and significant contributions to the sport.
17. Media controversies
Maradona’s career was marked by a tumultuous relationship with the media, as his fame attracted scrutiny and sparked numerous controversies with journalists and reporters.
18. Higest number of fouls
He set a record for enduring the highest number of fouls in a single World Cup match, with Italy committing 23 fouls against him during the 1982 tournament.
19. Coach of the Argentine national team
In 2008, Maradona assumed the role of coach for the Argentine national team, embarking on a new chapter in his career. With his sights set on upholding his remarkable legacy, he took charge from the sidelines.
20. He had tattoos
On his arm, he proudly displayed a tattoo of Che Guevara, while his left leg bore a striking portrait of Fidel Castro.
21. His death
Maradona died on November 25, 2020, coinciding with the death anniversary of both George Best and Fidel Castro. His demise was a result of a severe heart attack.
