Argentine footballer widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, famous for leading Argentina to 1986 World Cup victory with iconic performances
Diego Armando Maradona was born in Villa Fiorito, Buenos Aires in 1960, and rose through sheer talent and force of personality to become one of the most extraordinary athletes in sporting history. He started at Argentinos Juniors (1976–1981) before moving to Boca Juniors (1981–1982), then Barcelona (1982–1984) for a then world-record fee. His defining years came at Napoli (1984–1991), where he delivered two Serie A titles (1987, 1990), a UEFA Cup (1989) and a Coppa Italia (1987) to a club from the impoverished south of Italy that had never previously won the league. In 91 international appearances for Argentina he scored 34 goals, none more famous than the two against England in the 1986 World Cup quarter-final — the Hand of God and the Goal of the Century, struck four minutes apart. He finished that tournament with five goals and five assists, almost single-handedly carrying Argentina to the title. His top speed was measured at 32.7 km/h, and he regularly covered 11.5 km per game despite playing as an attacking midfielder. He scored 345 career goals in 680 appearances across all clubs. He later had spells at Sevilla (1992–93), Newell's Old Boys (1993–94) and returned to Boca Juniors (1995–97). He died in November 2020 aged 60.
Hand of God goal and Goal of the Century at 1986 World Cup
His Goal of the Century — a 60-metre dribble past six opponents — was voted the greatest goal in football history.
Did You Know?How They Played
Creative playmaker with exceptional dribbling, vision and left foot
Lasting Impact
Widely considered one of the greatest footballers of all time alongside Pelé
Career Honours
- FIFA World Cup 1986
- Serie A 1987, 1990 (Napoli)
- UEFA Cup 1989 (Napoli)
- Coppa Italia 1987
- Copa del Rey 1983 (Barcelona)
- Argentine Primera División 1981
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Argentinos Juniors | 1976–1981 | 166 | 116 | #10 |
| Barcelona | 1982–1984 | 40 | 28 | #10 |
| Napoli | 1984–1991 | 58 | 22 | #10 |
| Boca Juniors | 1981–1982 | 40 | 28 | — |
| Sevilla | 1992–1993 | 26 | 5 | — |
| Newell's Old Boys | 1993–1994 | 5 | 0 | — |
| Argentine | — | 91 | 34 | — |