Riquelme will not play for Maradona

March 11, 2009

Juan Roman Riquelme whom many still regards as one of Argentina’s best players is refusing to ever play for Argentine again whilst Maradona is in charge of the team.

“As long as Maradona is coach I will not return to the national side - we are not on the same wavelength,”

“It’s clear we cannot work together,” the 30-year-old insisted.

“The national side is over for me - I say that very clearly. I learned from the radio that I was not going to play against France (a February 11 friendly with the South Americans won 2-0 in Marseille). I have principles and they are not those of the coach,” Riquelme complained.

“It’s a shame to know I will miss the World Cup in South Africa in 2010 and I wish the team all the best. If I go things would not be easy and I prefer that someone else goes in my place,” he added.

“I’m tired - I want to live in peace. It’s strange how things are in 2009 with all the criticism after an incredible 2008,” said Riquelme, who won Olympic gold last summer in Beijing.

Riquelme has had issues with the national coach before and has walked out previously only to return in 2006 under Alfio Basile. Prior to Riquelme’s statement Maradona had hinted that he would like to include the playmaker in his squad but after Riquelme heard Maradonas comments about his current form he was less than pleased.

“Riquelme, I need him in the final 20 metres so he can link with (Carlos) Tevez, (Sergio) Aguero and Lionel Messi and peel off an opponent. I like it when he uses his speed to spray around decisive passes and also get on the scoresheet. If he’s not doing that he is of no use to me,” Maradona said.

Two-time world champions Argentina currently trail South American qualifying group leaders Paraguay by seven points and Brazil by one point, although they are well-placed to take one of four slots for the finals.

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