Maradona close to accepting Argentina job

Diego Maradona has revealed he is on the verge of becoming the new Argentina coach.

Maradona has met with Argentinian Football Association president Julio Grondona. Carlos Bianchi was also at the meeting, and it is understood he could become a director in the new set-up.

In an interview with Fox Sports, Maradona suggested he was on the verge of accepting an offer.

“The offer from Julio Grondona attracted me a lot,” he said. “As soon as it is confirmed, I will start working, but I can say I am very proud.”

Argentina, who play Scotland in a friendly at Hampden later this year, have been without a coach since Alfio Basile stepped down for personal reasons on October 16.

Earlier Pedro Troglio, coach of Paraguayan club Cerro Porteno, claimed he has already been approached by Maradona to become a member of the new Argentina set-up.

“I am extremely happy, but I must keep my feet on the ground,” Maradona’s former international team-mate told the Ole newspaper. “The world’s best player has called me.

“It was a huge surprise. Being aware that your name is included as possible coaching staff is amazing, but we’ll have to wait to see whether Diego is selected.”