From time to time, a few of my friends ask me about Diego Maradona, about how he is faring with Al Wasl, about how he goes about his task of bringing out the best from a mix of players that includes well-paid foreign pros.
But I doubt any of them have taken the initiative to attend one of the matches involving the Argentinian legend's new home along Zabeel Road. May be some do have the interest to attend a Maradona match, but it is just that they cannot get past the time warp and actually make it to the grounds and take in some "side entertainment", along with some UAE football over a weekend.
One has to see it to believe it. Last week during Al Wasl's semi-final against Al Ahli, Maradona was in the limelight once again. No, it was not trying to simmer down the situation surrounding the uncalled action from his goalkeeper Majid Nasser. Maradona had much more to offer fans.
In one instance, he controlled a stray ball on his shoulder and then passed it on to one of the players to take the throw-in. He also did a full somersault inside the coach's box after one his players missed an open goal-scoring opportunity.
But the best was the man himself sitting on the floor outside the club his hands covering his face in sheer disbelief that his team lost one last opportunity to win a trophy. He is aware that any remaining chance of winning something with his new club has evaporated with that semi-final loss.
But he also knows that he has a tag to carry forward, both personally and professionally as he inspires and leads the club that he chose last year.
I would still urge the vast majority of armchair "Maradona fans" to step out of their comfort zone and come watch a man who brings so much to the beautiful game. One has to be there to experience the magic around Maradona's persona.
Even if he wants to, this genius may not remain in Dubai for long.
