Everton Manager Carlo Ancelotti Breaks Into Tears During Maradona Tribute

A minute's applause was held before Everton's clash with Leeds United on Saturday, for the recently departed Diego Maradona.

Toffees manager Carlo Ancelotti was particularly emotional during the tribute, breaking into tears.

The Italian played against Maradona several times in his career, with the Argentine at Napoli while he played for AC Milan in Serie A.

In addition, Ancelotti coached Napoli, where Maradona is considered a club legend, and counted the all-time great as a friend.

Earlier this week, Ancelotti explained: "He was my opponent and then he became my friend. He was very humble and it is a big loss for football, but the memories will always be there.

"He was a fantastic player who helped football around the world. At this time he was the best player in the world, and the best player I ever played against. He was so difficult to stop and had unbelievable quality.

"He never complained on the pitch. I tried to stop him with strong contact but he never complained and after that we became good friends.

"We met at events after our playing careers were finished and it was always good to spend time with him.

"He was not only a footballer but a great example to show everywhere. But this is the life. I will always keep fantastic memories of him."

This emotion came out before Everton's match with Leeds, whose manager Marcelo Bielsa also described Maradona as his 'idol' in the build up to the clash.

Topics: Football News, Football, Carlo Ancelotti, Diego Maradona, Everton, Leeds United

Max Miller