He was a manager with an almost pathological dislike of specialist fullbacks who replaced shrewd strategy with hugs and kisses yet could still outshine some of his players on the training pitch with precision free kicks.
So when the Argentine Football Federation decided not to renew the contract of Diego Armando Maradona, the world of sport became a little less colourful. South Africa 2010 will be remembered as much for the captivating sideline theatrics of the Albiceleste coach as for the vuvuzelas, makarapas and Jabulanis.
Fittingly going out in a blaze of controversy, Maradona accused senior officials Carlos Bilardo and Julio Grondona of lying, betrayal and plotting against him in a departure linked to the culling of his backroom staff.
Watching with more than a passing interest from Singapore was his former international teammate, Ossie Ardiles, with whom Maradona played at the 1982 World Cup. Ardiles was a special guest at the annual Soccerex seminar, appearing on a panel with former Manchester United captain Bryan Robson and ex-Liverpool assistant coach Phil Thompson. 'Obviously, [Maradona] didn't have an easy time as the manager of Argentina,' Ardiles said. 'There are mixed emotions for him and supporters as it was a very difficult World Cup.
'It wasn't a bad tournament for Argentina because for me there were only two teams who stood out - Spain and Germany - and countries like France, Italy and even Holland must be disappointed. Argentina lost to a strong German team and there are many positives to be taken from their overall performance.'
Ardiles can relate to the attacking instincts of Maradona's side as they smashed 10 goals in their first four matches before a spectacular 4-0 defeat to Germany in an unforgettable quarter-final.