Do you love him and hate him? Diego Maradona was in the stands during the clash between Argentina vs. Croatia for Russia 2018 and after the defeat that almost eliminates them from the World Cup, the 1986 world champion expressed his total support for the Albiceleste and Lionel Messi. However, in a Croatian media outlet, there are statements in which he criticizes the South American '10' and even suggests that the Croats become Argentinian.
On Diego Maradona's official Instagram, where a video was posted with Lionel Messi's jersey in hand, there is a message: "I am here, alongside my colors, which are stronger than anything anyone can say. Let's ask God to help us, as He always has. He gave us the prestige that Argentina has today, and I don't want to lose it. I want Argentina to win."
"I don't have time for envy. I hope that Messi scores 3 goals, 3 goals Aguero, or that we win 1-0 in injury time. The important thing is that today Argentinians are here, just like we were with the Russians, after Cameroon in Italy '90. I send a big kiss to all Argentinians, and this doesn't end here. Today a new sun can rise, brighter than ever for us. Up Argentina!"
(Instagram)
However, on the Croatian portal Narod.hr, there is an article titled 'Diego Maradona in tears: "Modric is masterful, a shame he's not Croatian, Messi lacks leadership personality"'. According to this renowned Balkan news outlet, the former Argentine star allegedly said this after the 3-0 defeat.
"Luka Modric was masterful, perfect. On a day like this, you want those players to be Argentine. We don't have a leader today. Messi lacks that personality. You first need to win something," it reads.