Diego Maradona

Argentine soccer legend

Contemporary influential 167 sayings

Sayings by Diego Maradona

I made a goal with my hand. I told them: 'It was the hand of God.'

1986 — Post-match interview after the 'Hand of God' goal
Controversial Unverifiable

I dedicate this triumph to Fidel Castro and to all the Cuban people.

2009 — After Argentina qualified for the 2010 World Cup
Controversial Unverifiable

When I say I want to talk to the president of the football association, I want to talk to the president of the football association. I don't want to talk to his dog.

Unknown — Press conference, complaining about football officials
Controversial Unverifiable

I am what I am. And I'm not going to change just because some people don't like me.

Unknown — Interview
Controversial Unverifiable

To see the ball, to run after it, to kick it, is the most beautiful thing in the world.

Unknown — Interview
Controversial Unverifiable

I would give my life to see Argentina champion again.

Unknown — Interview
Controversial Unverifiable

I don't believe in God, but I believe in Maradona.

Unknown — His own ironic quote, referring to his status
Controversial Unverifiable

Pelé should go back to the museum.

2010 — Responding to Pelé's criticisms
Controversial Confirmed

Messi needs to be left in peace. He's a phenomenon, but he plays for Barcelona, not Argentina.

2016 — Critiquing Messi's performance for Argentina
Controversial Unverifiable

I am a guy who has been through a lot in life. I have made mistakes, but I have always paid for them.

Unknown — Interview
Controversial Unverifiable

I'm not a politician. I'm a football player.

Unknown — When asked about political issues
Controversial Confirmed

I always said that I was going to be a world champion, and I was.

Unknown — Interview
Controversial Unverifiable

I hate everything that comes from the United States. I hate it with all my strength.

2007 — Interview, expressing anti-American sentiment
Controversial Unverifiable

I have been in the hospital for 14 years. Today, I want to play football again.

2004 — Speaking about his struggles with addiction
Controversial Unverifiable

To play for the national team is the greatest thing in the world. It's like touching the sky with your hands.

Unknown — Interview
Controversial Unverifiable

I am not Jesus Christ. I am just a man who plays football.

Unknown — Interview, downplaying his status
Controversial Unverifiable

I don't like to lose. I hate to lose. I hate to lose to anyone.

Unknown — Interview
Controversial Unverifiable

I was born in a poor neighborhood, and I will die in a poor neighborhood. I will never forget where I came from.

Unknown — Interview
Controversial Unverifiable

I would be happy if I could play football again like I used to, but it's impossible.

Unknown — Speaking about his physical condition
Controversial Unverifiable

I have two daughters, and I would love them to play football, but I don't want them to play with men.

Unknown — Interview, expressing traditional views on gender and sport
Controversial Unverifiable