Maradona Left Off 1978 World Cup Squad

Diego Maradona, a prominent figure in football history, made his full international debut for Argentina at the age of 16 against Hungary. His early career was marked by rapid development, as he transitioned from a professional debut with Argentinos Juniors to representing his national team. Despite his talent and potential, Maradona was not included in the Argentine squad for the 1978 World Cup, which was hosted in Argentina. The decision was made by coach César Luis Menotti, who believed that Maradona, at just 17 years old, was too young for the pressures of a World Cup tournament. This choice sparked discussions about the balance between youth and experience in high-stakes competitions, particularly in a sport where the mental and physical demands are significant. Maradona's exclusion from the squad was notable, especially considering his later achievements and status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. His absence from the tournament did not hinder Argentina's success, as they went on to win the World Cup, but it left many to ponder what impact he could have had on the team's performance.