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Diego Maradona: Football and Argentina legend has died aged 60

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Footballing legend, Diego Maradona has died after suffering a cardiac arrest on Wednesday evening

Diego Maradona, 60, is a former Barcelona and Napoli player and reportedly had a cardiac arrest in his home in Buenos Aires. Maradona had a series of health issues, most recently a blood clot in his brain in which he had successful surgery for just two weeks ago. His death was reported by Argentine news outlet Clarin, who described the news as having a ‘worldwide impact’.

Remembered as one of the best players of all time, his career spanned over 20 years. He has also previously managed the Argentina men’s national team. Many will recall that he was one of the most gifted footballers the world has ever seen.

He left a long-lasting legacy after gracing the football pitch for the last time in 1997. The four time Argentina footballer of the year, won two Serie A titles, the UEFA cup and the Italian cup for Napoli. As well as this he won the Copa del Rey with Barcelona and most notably the 1986 World Cup with his nation.

In 43 matches he scored 30 times for Barcelona, before moving to Napoli in 1984. In seven years with the Italian giants he played 259 times, scoring 115 goals and producing 29 assists. He also played in four World Cups for Argentina, scoring 34 goals in 91 appearances and captaining them to World Cup glory in 1986.

His legendary status no doubt remains in the hearts of football fans all over the world, who are deeply saddened by this news.

The Argentine FA confirmed the news in a statement on Twitter: “The Argentine Football Association, through its President Claudio Tapia, expresses its deepest sorrow for the death of our legend, Diego Armando Maradona.

“You will always be in our hearts.”

 

 

Remembering his legacy

Diego Maradona will always be known as one of, if not the greatest footballer of all time. He was a national icon in his home country Argentina. So much so, the president of Argentina, Alberto Fernandez, has declared a three day national mourning following his passing.

“You took us to the top of the world. Made us immensely happy. You were the greatest of them all. Thank you for having existed, Diego. We’re going to miss you all our lives.” he stated.

Country

To many England fans, he will most likely be remembered for scoring the ‘Hand of God’ goal. It was the goal that kicked them out of the 1986 World Cup quarter finals. Maradona also scored another in the same game, however this one was better known as ‘the goal of the century’.

He dribbled from beyond the half way line, past countless players and slotted it home to take them into the semi-finals. Those that witnessed him play knew how good of a footballer he was. His ability to dribble past defenders like they weren’t there made him unstoppable on the ball.

Argentina won the World Cup that year, thanks to Diego Maradona’s performances throughout the tournament. As captain of the national team he lifted the trophy after they beat West Germany 3-2.

Maradona also helped Argentina reach the 1990 World Cup final in Italy. They eventually lost to West Germany, who got their revenge for the previous tournament. They won 1-0 in Rome, in their last world cup match before reunifying as a country.

Club

His most famous period at a club level, was when he spent seven years in Italy with Napoli. Scoring 115 goals for the club, he took them to new heights, helping them to domestic success across the late 80’s. Especially bringing them two league titles and European glory.

Unfortunately, he lived a lavish lifestyle off the pitch throughout his time playing football. He was notoriously known for having a cocaine addiction in the latter stages of his career. He tested drug positive early in 1991, resulting in a 15 month ban from football.

Towards the end of his footballing days he also played for Spanish side Sevilla, before moving back to his home country to sign for Newell’s Old boys. In 1997 he eventually ended his professional career where it all began, at Boca Juniors. The club he signed from to Barcelona for £7m in 1982 was the last club he played for.

Despite his off the field antics, Diego Maradona was a true hero for his club and his country and will always be remembered for the way he changed the game of football. He has inspired millions of people from all over the world by gracing the game with his ability and talents.

The Argentine legend will no doubt continue to influence many more in the future as a true footballing icon and one of the greatest sportsmen of all time.

 

 

How the world reacted:

Many past and present footballing stars have taken to social media to express their gratitude and condolences following the death of Diego Maradona on Wednesday evening.

Brazil legend, 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.”

 

Argentina and Barcelona legend, Lionel Messi: “A very sad day for all Argentine’s and football. He leaves us but does not leave, because Diego is eternal. I take all the beautiful moments lived with him and wanted to take the opportunity to send him condolences to all his friends and family. RIP.”

 

Portugal legend and Juventus forward, 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.”

 

Former England and Tottenham player, Gary Lineker: “By some distance the best player of my generation and arguably the greatest of all time. After a blessed but troubled life, hopefully he’ll finally find some comfort in the hands of God. #RipDiego”

 

FC Barcelona’s official club twitter: “FC Barcelona expresses its deepest condolences regarding the death of Diego Armando Maradona, a player for our club (1982-84) and an icon of world football. Rest in peace Diego.”

 

Current England and Spurs captain, Harry Kane: “Privileged to have met him. Very sad news. RIP Diego Maradona.”

 

 

We hope you enjoyed the article about Diego Maradona. Do you think that this footballing legend was the greatest footballer of all time? Let us know!

 

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Joe is an aspiring sports journalist with an excellent knowledge and passion for football and basketball, with a wide-range of understanding in major sports. He studies Multi-Media Journalism at Bournemouth University and is currently completing a ‘year in industry’ placement, beginning his first 3 months here with us at Sporting Ferret! You can contact him on twitter: @joewillis_12

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