The prospects of Argentina after Diego Maradona
Argentina may have exited the World Cup unceremoniously but the effect of the ‘Maradona’ factor on Argentina and the World Cup 2010 was obvious. Similarly Diego Maradona was removed in a very hasty and controversial manner. When Maradona was removed from his post, the backlash was certain as Maradona is considered a national hero by Argentineans.
During his tenure, Argentina’s national team went through a rollercoaster ride. After suffering embarrassing defeats in World Cup qualifiers, Argentina started their quest for gold with some promise and style in South Africa. They defeated smaller teams convincingly but as they were pitted against big team, the Argentinean team members fell on their faces.
Now a new chapter begins in Argentinean football under a new coach. According to some pundits and analysts, the new era will be more stable and prosperous for Argentinean football. The same views were expressed by none other than the Maradona's former international team-mate Ossie Ardiles. According to the 1978 World Cup winner, Ossie Ardiles, the conclusion of Maradona’s tenure is beneficial for Argentinean football. Ardiles believes that it was Maradona’s responsibility to lead his team in South Africa and as Argentina failed, the responsibility lies on Maradona’s shoulders. He said, “It was interesting to say the least. From the moment he arrived, it was very much touch and go until the very last moment. At the finals, in the first few games we did fine but at the end of the day tactically we were not sound. Even the games we won every one could see that defensively we were not right.”
Maradona’s departure was very unconventional as he was removed after he was given assurance regarding his extension by board members. The main source of contention was the selection of backroom personnel. Ardiles believes that despite bad blood which now exists between Argentinean FA and former Napoli legend, Maradona could make his return to Argentinean football. According to Ardiles, Maradona was desperate to carry on but his principles came in his way. He said, “Knowing him he wanted to have four years definitely. But he would not compromise - the offer was for him to change some of his staff but he was not prepared to do that. Even now, though the decision has been made, there is still some talk about him coming back. I don't think so but with Argentina you never know.”
It is very unclear what Maradona will do in future but it is not very likely that he will return to the managerial position. Maradona had failed attempts at Textil Mandiyus and Racing Club in the 1990s which only proved his inability to handle affairs of club football. His stints at both these clubs also showed that he is too volatile for club level football. On the other hand, for Argentina, it is better to forget Maradona and focus on the future.
Sergio Batista has now taken the reins of Argentina’s team. He has been given one year by Argentinean FA to prove his credentials. He started his tenure with a victory over Ireland in Dublin and is hoping to retain his winning streak. Batista is under immense pressure to change the fate of Argentina on the global arena. Other names have also been pitted against him for Argentina’s top football post. These names include Racing Club boss Miguel Angel Russo, Boca Juniors coach Carlos Bianchi and Estudiantes coach Alejandro Sabella. Commenting on Batista, Ardiles said, “Batista definitely has a chance [of getting the job permanently] - whoever is in charge always has a big chance. He is not the favourite by any means but Argentina has a few friendlies between now and the end of the year.”
A new era has begun for Argentina’s football. The new coach has the hefty task of filling Maradona’s shoes and bringing the national team out of Argentina’s biggest legend’s shadow. Time will tell whether Sergio Batista is successful in this regard or not.
The prospects of Argentina after Diego Maradona
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