Maradona: I want to be the Wenger of Al Wasl

Diego Maradona has revealed that he would like to become the Arsene Wenger of Al Wasl.

The World Cup winner has repeatedly rejected claims that he only took up a coaching role with the United Arab Emirates outfit for financial reasons and has now insisted that his dream is to build a lasting legacy within the country.

“I would love to fulfil and go on to renew (my contract); to become a sort of Arsene Wenger at Al Wasl,” Maradona told DPA.

“I want to fulfil a long-term contract, more than anything because of the youngsters aged 14, 16, 18 and 20, to show them that money is important for everyone, but that glory cannot be bought.”

Meanwhile, Maradona admitted he no longer watches Argentina in action “because my heart hurts” but he revealed that he still keeps a close eye on former club Boca Juniors and is always open to returning to La Bombonera.

“I love Boca. If they call me out of desperation then I would walk there. The thing is I know Boca aren’t desperate, and they have a great coach (Julio Cesar Falcioni).”

Maradona enjoyed two separate stints at Boca during his long and illustrious playing career.