Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi: The Argentine Football Legends
Who is the greatest figure in Argentina – the most revered by the Argentine people?
Argentina has been graced by two iconic figures who have left an indelible mark on the sport – Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. These two legends have achieved unparalleled success, both collectively and individually, earning them a special place in the hearts of Argentine people. In this article, we will delve into their illustrious careers and explore who truly deserves the title of the greatest footballer in Argentina, the one most revered by its people.
Diego Maradona: The Argentine Football Titan
Diego Maradona’s career is adorned with a plethora of achievements, both as part of teams and individually. He began his journey with Boca Juniors, where he won the Argentine Primera División in 1981 Metropolitano. Maradona’s club success continued as he moved to Barcelona, clinching titles such as Copa del Rey and Copa de la Liga in 1983. However, it was at Napoli where he achieved legendary status by securing Serie A titles, Coppa Italia, UEFA Cup, and Supercoppa Italiana.
On the international stage, Maradona played a pivotal role in Argentina’s success, notably winning the FIFA World Cup in 1986 and the Artemio Franchi Trophy in 1993.
Maradona’s individual accolades are a testament to his exceptional talent and contributions to the sport. He earned numerous awards, including Vua phá lưới in the Argentine Primera División, FIFA World Youth Championship, and being named Mejor Futbolista de América multiple times. Maradona’s impact extended beyond football, with honors like the UNICEF Ambassador and the Ciudadano Ilustre of Buenos Aires.
Lionel Messi: The Modern Maestro
Lionel Messi’s journey in football is synonymous with excellence. With a record-breaking 44 collective titles, Messi’s success at Barcelona is unparalleled. He secured La Liga titles, Copa del Rey, Supercopa de España, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup trophies during his time with the club. His recent move to Paris Saint-Germain brought additional Ligue 1 and Trophée des Champions titles.
Messi’s international career blossomed as well, with his crowning achievement being the FIFA World Cup victory in 2022 and the Copa América triumph in 2021. Moreover, he played a vital role in securing the CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions in 2022.
On the individual front, Messi boasts a record seven Ballon d’Or awards, The Best FIFA Men’s Player awards, and numerous Golden Boot and Pichichi titles. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
The Argentine Football Debate
In the aftermath of the 2022 World Cup victory, Lionel Messi’s status in Argentina has reached unprecedented heights. He is now revered by the entire nation, despite facing criticism and even vandalism of his statue in Buenos Aires a few years earlier.
However, when it comes to Argentina, there will always be an enduring reverence for Diego Maradona. While Messi may be considered the greatest footballer in the world (following Pele and Cristiano Ronaldo), in Argentina, Maradona remains the footballing legend who holds a special place in the hearts of the people. The debate between Messi and Maradona will continue to ignite passionate discussions, but both have left an indelible legacy that will be celebrated for generations to come.
