Newcastle United legend who Diego Maradona loved playing with lands surprise new job in football

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Diego Maradona was a huge fan of Newcastle United legend Nobby Solano, who has just been given a rather surprise role in international management.

Solano joined Newcastle United in the summer of 1998, arriving from Argentinian giants Boca Juniors.

During his time with the Buenos Aires giants, the Peruvian winger left quite the impression on Maradona.

An article from The Guardian in 2004 revealed that Maradona – widely regarded as perhaps the greatest footballer in history – called Solano “the Little Maestro” after playing with him towards the back end of his career.

Solano made 315 appearances across two spells at St James’ Park, leaving a lasting impression on former teammates and fans alike.

Now, his managerial career has taken another surprise turn.

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Nobby Solano appointed Pakistan U23 manager

The 50-year-old has been confirmed as the Pakistan U23 manager, although the role has a “progression plan” to coaching the senior team.

Pakistan are ranked 201^st in the FIFA World Rankings and have never qualified for a major international tournament.

Solano has previously coached Peruvian sides Universitario and Jose Galvez FBC, along with Ontario in Canada, AFC Eskilstuna of Sweden and Blyth Spartans back in the UK.

He’s also worked as the Peru U23 manager and formed part of the senior coaching team during their 2018 World Cup campaign.

What Nobby Solano regretted not doing at Newcastle United

Solano played in some brilliant Newcastle teams, but didn’t win a trophy. He was part of the team who lost the 1999 FA Cup final, which is the closest he ever got.

Speaking after his second departure from the club in 2007, Solano told Sky Sports that he regretted never repaying the supporters with a trophy during his two spells at St James’.

“I only have one regret about my time at Newcastle United, and that is I did not help give the fans the trophy they deserve,” he said.

Now, Newcastle are over their trophy hoodoo after lifting the Carabao Cup in March.