Diego Maradona, one of the greatest footballers of all time, passed away on November 25, 2020, at the age of 60. The Argentine legend had been suffering from various health issues for years and had recently undergone brain surgery. His death has left the football world in shock and mourning.
Maradona was born on October 30, 1960, in Lanus, Buenos Aires Province. He grew up in a poor family and started playing football at a young age. He was quickly recognized as a prodigious talent and joined the youth academy of Argentinos Juniors when he was just nine years old.
Maradona made his professional debut for Argentinos Juniors in 1976 at the age of 16. He quickly established himself as one of the most promising young players in Argentina and was signed by Boca Juniors in 1981. He helped Boca win the league title that year before moving to Europe to join Barcelona.
Maradona's time at Barcelona was marred by injuries and controversy, but he still managed to score some memorable goals and win a Copa del Rey trophy. In 1984, he moved to Napoli for a then-world record fee of £6.9 million ($10.5 million). It was at Napoli where Maradona truly became a legend.
Maradona led Napoli to their first-ever Serie A title in 1987 and repeated the feat in 1990. He also helped them win the UEFA Cup in 1989 and the Italian Cup twice. Maradona's performances for Napoli were nothing short of magical, as he dazzled opponents with his dribbling skills, vision, and goalscoring ability.
Maradona's greatest moment came at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico. He led Argentina to victory with some unforgettable performances that included his infamous "Hand of God" goal against England in the quarterfinals and his stunning solo effort against Belgium in the semifinals.
Maradona played for Argentina from 1977 to 1994 and scored a total of 34 goals in 91 appearances. He also played for clubs such as Sevilla, Newell's Old Boys, and Boca Juniors before retiring from professional football in 1997.
Off the pitch, Maradona had a tumultuous life that included battles with drug addiction, weight problems, and legal issues. However, he remained an icon to millions around the world who admired his talent and charisma.
In Argentina, Maradona was more than just a footballer; he was a national hero who represented their hopes and dreams on the pitch. His death has sparked an outpouring of grief across Argentina and beyond.
Maradona will be remembered as one of the greatest footballers ever to grace the game. His legacy will live on through his incredible performances on the pitch and his enduring impact off it. Rest in peace Diego Armando Maradona - you will never be forgotten.