The Albiceleste legend is still hurting from his treatment during his spell as national coach and has instead pledged his allegiances to hosts UAE at the Fifa under-17 World Cup

Diego Maradona has continued his long-running feud with his country after he announced he would not be supporting Argentina at the upcoming Fifa Under-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates.

The former Napoli striker has never reconciled differences with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) since he was unceremoniously removed from the position of head coach of the senior national side after the 2010 World Cup.

He is now back in Argentina, where he has picked up the post of ‘spiritual coach’ for Primera D club Deportivo Riestra in addition to his role as a sports ambassador for Dubai, after leaving Emirates club Al Wasl last year.

However, as a result of his tempestuous relationship with the AFA, Maradona is withholding his support for his own country and has announced he will instead be getting behind the hosts at the upcoming tournament.

“I will support the UAE and not Argentina because of my differences with my country,” the former World Cup winner announced at a press conference.

“I urge all the fans to come in large numbers to support the home team.”

The tournament kicks off on Thursday when Brazil take on Slovakia in the opening match, before hosts UAE take on Honduras.

Argentina, meanwhile, start their campaign, minus the support of Maradona, against Iran on Saturday evening.

According to Goal