Discussing the infamous ‘Hand of God’ goal with the legendary Diego Maradona himself proved to be an unusual experience. Despite scoring one of the most contentious goals in football history, Maradona showed no remorse during the conversation, conducted with an Englishman. He firmly stated that utilizing any advantage available on the football field was essential.

During our interaction in Doha, Qatar, back in 2005, Maradona, who passed away at the age of 60 in 2020, expressed his early support for VAR, despite acknowledging that it would have disallowed his goal. He emphasized the necessity of embracing such technology for the progress of the sport, a sentiment that was eventually echoed by football authorities 15 years later.

Maradona, known for his charismatic and friendly demeanor, openly discussed his past struggles with drug addiction, his family, and his admiration for English star Wayne Rooney. Reflecting on the past, he acknowledged the importance of his daughters in his life, highlighting the joy of witnessing them grow up daily, a privilege he missed during his tumultuous past.

The football icon emphasized the role of parents as true inspirations for children, downplaying the influence of sports stars and celebrities. He credited his personal transformation to his daughters, shifting his focus to providing them with a better life. Maradona also shared his thoughts on Wayne Rooney’s potential impact on the 2006 World Cup, drawing parallels between their playing styles and personalities.

In a lighthearted moment, Maradona humorously referenced his mother’s opinion that he was the greatest player ever, suggesting that everyone should heed his mother’s judgment. The engaging conversation with the football legend showcased his warmth and humility, leaving a lasting impression of a man who had navigated through personal challenges to find contentment in his family life.