Maradona set to step down as Argentina boss

DIEGO MARADONA is set to quit as coach of Argentina following their World Cup mauling by Germany in South Africa, according to reports.

Maradona and his squad arrived home on Sunday following their 4-0 drubbing by the impressive Germans. Argentina had been considered one of the favourites for the finals, but they came up short as they were hammered by Joachim Low’s men.

Despite their defeat, Maradona and his men were greeted by cheering fans in Buenos Aries as they played some great football during the tournament. Maradona is an Argentine legend and remains so, with fans calling for him not to resign – but quotes emerging seem to suggest he is set to quit.

“It is done, my cycle has ended,” he is quoted by Cronica. “I have given everything, now I will spend time with my family – but I am not depressed.”

Other sources say no decision has been made and that Argentine Football Association president Julio Grandona wants to meet with him very soon.

Mardona’s assistant coach Alejandro Mancuso insisted his backroom staff are hopeful he will stay put.

“Knowing Diego, it is difficult for me to think he wants to step down after failing in his objective to win the Cup,” Mancuso said.

“We can’t throw away all the good work we’ve done.”