Today marks the birthday of football legend Diego Maradona.
Idman.Biz reports that if he were alive, Maradona would have turned 65. He is remembered not only as an icon of Argentine football but also as one of the greatest figures in world football history.
Maradona began his football journey at a young age, meeting “Los Kebollitas” head coach Francis Cornejo through Goyo Carrizo at just 10 years old. This marked the first step of his remarkable career. During his time with “Los Kebollitas,” he played 136 unbeaten matches. In 1976, he made his debut with “Argentinos Juniors” and participated in the Youth World Championship in 1979.
In 1982, Maradona transferred to Spain’s Barcelona for $12 million and two years later joined Italy’s Napoli, where he played until 1991. Representing Argentina in 91 matches and scoring 34 goals, he famously won the World Cup in 1986, scoring the historic “Hand of God” goal in the quarterfinal against England.
However, Maradona’s life was not without challenges. In 1991, he tested positive for cocaine, and at the 1994 World Cup, he was suspended for 15 months due to banned substances. While coaching in Argentina during his suspension, he retired from professional football in 1997.
Despite controversies, in 2000, FIFA named Maradona, alongside Pele, the best footballer of the 20th century. He notably left the ceremony early, insisting he considered himself the world’s greatest player.
Maradona won a gold medal with Argentina in the 1986 World Cup and a silver in 1990. His life and football legacy continue to inspire millions of fans worldwide.
On what would have been his 65th birthday, Diego Maradona remains an eternal memory to football and his supporters – a legend whose life was rich with triumphs, challenges, and unforgettable moments.
