News APP

NewsApp (Free)

Read news as it happens
Download NewsApp

Available on  gplay

This article was first published 15 years ago
Rediff.com  » Sports » Maradona hurt by Boca fans' rebuke

Maradona hurt by Boca fans' rebuke

March 19, 2009 13:51 IST
Get Rediff News in your Inbox:

Being labelled a traitor by fans of his favourite club Boca Juniors has been deeply upsetting, Argentina coach Diego Maradona said on Wednesday.

"It hurt me in the soul that they have branded me a traitor but I can't do anything about it," he told Radio Mitre.

The insults followed Boca playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme's decision last week to quit the Argentine national side, saying that he could not work with the coach. Riquelme was upset that Maradona made public comments about his playing style.

Before Sunday's game with Argentinos Juniors, Boca fans gave Riquelme a rapturous ovation and some banners described Maradona, who has always been treated as a hero at the club, as a traitor.

"I don't blame the supporters, they have the right to support whoever they want," said Maradona.

"I can't do absolutely anything about it apart from continuing on my way.

"I've explained that I wanted Riquelme in my team but they have seen it the way they choose to see it."

Maradona, who has his own box at the Bombonera stadium, said he would return to the arena and is not bitter with the supporters.

"Of course, I'll return. The last thing I would do in my life would be to get angry with the Boca public."

Get Rediff News in your Inbox:
Source: REUTERS
© Copyright 2024 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon.

INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE 2024

INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE 2024