The ex-Seleccion boss had said on multiple occasions that he would love to try his hand on the Bombonera bench, but at 56 he believes his time has now passed
Argentina and Boca Juniors legend Diego Maradona has revealed that he has given up on the dream of coaching one day at the Buenos Aires club, while wishing new trainer Guillermo Barros Schelotto the best of luck.
Maradona, who spent a turbulent year and a half at the head of the Argentine national team and also coached Racing Club and Deportivo Mandiyu in his home country, has long said that he would love to return to the Bombonera.
But as fellow Xeneize legend Barros Schelotto was presented as Rodolfo Arruabarrena's replacement, the 1986 World Cup winner admitted he did not see himself receiving the call.
"With this appointment my dream of coaching Boca is through, I am already 56-years-old, he told Fox Sports from his home in Dubai.
"I hope that Melli [Barros Schelotto] stays at Boca for 10 years. Every time there is a big game I will take a plane to see my beloved Boca and say hello to the Mellizo."
The reigning Primera Division champions have endured an underwhelming start to the new campaign, with two defeats in their opening five matches.
And Maradona believes restoring order amongst the squad was key to reviving Boca's fortunes.
"I hope Melli puts the dressing room in order and gets the players well-trained. It's what we all want," he said.
"He is guaranteed to be backed to the bitter end by Boca fans, however he fares."
Barros Schelotto took his first training session on Wednesday with Boca, 24 hours before the Xeneize host Racing in a key Copa Libertadores tie.
- Goal