Diego Maradona

Argentina's National Soccer Team Faces Coaching Decision

The sacking of Argentina's national soccer coach, the legendary Maradona, presents an interesting situation for the Argentine Football Association as they move forward and prepare for the next World Cup.

In favor of sacking Maradona, he has a lengthy list of controversies following him since he first began to play in soccer leagues. These incidents range from media scrums and bans from international soccer governing body FIFA, to drug charges and adultery. With the number of issues facing him, it is questionable whether Maradona's full attention could be consistently given to the team. Maradona's colorful personality and personal turmoil frequently took the attention away from the play of Argentina's team. His leadership of the national team was marked by their erratic play in games, ranging from brilliant to inept.

However, when Maradona was able to motivate the team, Argentina was on fire. When Argentina faced possible elimination from the World Cup qualifiers, Maradona was able to lead the team to consecutive victories. If Maradona could tune his motivational abilities a bit, Argentina could be considered one of the favorites to win the next World Cup. Maradona's firing is believed to be a result of his refusal to change any of his assistant coaches, a sign of Maradona's remarkable loyalty. That loyalty convinced coaches and players to work hard to succeed. It could be argued that with all of the media attention on Maradona, it helped take some of the pressure off of Argentina's team, some of whom were playing in their first World Cup. He also had the public support of his players following their appearance in the World Cup.

As it is, Argentina will be looking for a new coach for the national soccer team. Maradona has not publicly commented upon his plans for the future. Candidates have yet to be confirmed by the Argentine Football Association. It is certain, however, that none of the possible replacements will be able to bring Maradona's dazzling flair to the position. The Argentine Football Association suggests that the new coach may be in place by September 7th for a match against Spain.

Maradona Sacked From Coaching Position

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