WThe 2026 FIFA World Cup is approaching, and preparations for the tournament are in full swing. Given that Argentina are the reigning champions, past players of the national team have been dominating the media scene.
This week on Rio Ferdinand’s podcast is Gabriel Batistuta, the legendary Argentine striker who played in three World Cup tournaments. ‘Batigor’ was a prolific goalscorer and remains the second-leading scorer in the history of the Argentine national team, surpassed only by the incomparable Lionel Messi.
Gabriel Batistuta laments not being able to save Diego Maradona as he neared death
Batistuta shared the pitch with the great Diego Maradona, so Ferdinand had to discuss the iconic player and his personality with Batistuta. On the occasion, Batistuta revealed the “big mistake” made by those around Maradona due to his polarizing personality.
“When he was young, no one could say ‘no’ to him. Everything was fine. That was a big mistake. It’s a shame because he was a great person. And he died alone. No one was by his side. He died like a dog. I blame myself too.”
Maradona was a highly polarizing figure both on and off the pitch. He suffered from cocaine addiction, which seriously affected his career as a football player and his overall health. Despite this, Argentines still respected his contributions to the world of football and his carefree attitude.
