Pablo Aimar, Messi’s childhood idol, serves as Argentina’s assistant coach

Pablo Aimar Argentina assistant coach Maradona praise Messi idol World Cup 2026

Diego Maradona once said Pablo Aimar was “the only footballer I would pay to watch,” a sentiment echoed by Lionel Messi, who grew up idolising Aimar. The former Argentine international, nicknamed “El Mago,” enjoyed a distinguished club career with River Plate, Valencia and Benfica, collecting 13 major trophies and 53 caps for Argentina.

Since 2018, Aimar has been the trusted assistant coach of the Argentine national team under head‑coach Lionel Scaloni, contributing to Argentina’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted by Mexico, Canada and the United States. His legacy is highlighted as a bridge between past Argentine legends and the current squad, with Messi publicly acknowledging Aimar’s influence on his own development.

Sources

Pablo, idolul lui Leo Messi! Zeul Maradona a spus cândva despre el: „Singurul pentru care aș plăti să-l văd” [www.gsp.ro]

28 days ago

"On je jedini fudbaler za koga bih platio da ga gledam!" Mesijev idol i čovek kojem se divio Maradona sedi na klupi Argentine [sportal.blic.rs]

28 days ago