Argentine football legend Mario Kempes has shared a lighthearted joke about his late countryman Diego Maradona, revealing that he didn’t like how Maradona stole the spotlight from him, according to Sportskeeda. In a recent interview with FIFA, Kempes humorously said, “He only let me be the best in the world for eight years.”
Kempes, a World Cup winner in 1978, expressed his deep respect for Maradona’s abilities and mental strength, describing him as an example of what Argentine players can achieve. Despite his joking comment, Kempes acknowledged the immense talent and impact Maradona had on the sport.
Maradona, who passed away in November 2020, left an indelible mark on Argentine football and culture. His legacy continues to be celebrated by fans and scholars alike, with Harvard professor Mariano Siskind recently sharing insights on why Maradona means so much to Argentina.
Kempes’ humorous comment highlights the friendly rivalry and mutual respect between two of Argentina’s greatest footballers. While Kempes may have joked about Maradona stealing the spotlight, it’s clear that he holds his late countryman in the highest regard.