One of the greatest footballers ever, Diego Maradona was named alongside Pelé as FIFA’s Co-Player of the 20th Century. The Argentinian striker was a staple on La Albiceleste for a decade, leading his home country to a memorable FIFA World Cup victory in 1986. In the quarterfinal against England, Diego scored two historic goals – the first being the “Hand of God” and the second voted “Goal of the Century” by FIFA. The adored icon was nicknamed “El Pibe de Oro” (“The Golden Boy”) for his daring runs, lightning footwork, magical creativity and clinical finishing. When his "Hand of God" jersey sold in 2022 for $9.28 million, it reset the entire game-used market, not just for soccer but every sport.

Presented here is a 1979 Argentina National Team #10 jersey worn by Maradona in international competition. In February 1977, Maradona debuted with Argentina’s senior team at the age of 16. Left off the ’78 World Cup squad due to his youth and inexperience, Diego responded by dominating the 1979 FIFA U-20 World Cup with six goals in six matches, leading Argentina to the title in Japan. He notched his first senior team goal in June 1979 and scored again for La Albiceleste in the 1979 Copa America. That year Argentina played in several friendlies and sported this third away model kit only in a couple matches. The navy-blue, long-sleeved kit was manufactured by Adidas at the German apparel giant’s Argentina factory, the famous Trefoil logo embroidered on the chest instead of heat pressed per European production standards.

The cotton-made shirt has Adidas’ three-stripe branding running the full length of the sleeves – a desired variation of the brand’s long-sleeve styles of the era. The stripes, crew neck, and sleeve ends are matching white. Adjacent to the Adidas Trefoil in white is the classic Asociación del Fútbol Argentino (Argentine Football Association) crest with the gold AFA badge and sky blue and white stripes done in appliqué. The back features Diego’s famous number “10” in white numerals using the multi-outline style of late-1970s Argentina jerseys. Properly tagged by Adidas within the collar, the label is in German on the front and Spanish on the back where, very importantly, it reads “Fibra Industria Argentina” (Argentine industrial fiber). The well-worn shirt exhibits significant pilling to the cotton fabric, moderate soil spotting, and sweat staining, yet the navy-blue colors remain strong. Early-career gamers from the Argentine legend are incredibly scarce and highly coveted among collectors. In terms of era and aesthetics, this is his finest Argentina exemplar we have ever handled. Includes letter of authenticity from MEARS.

The Football Scout Collection

Our consignor holds one of the most impressive vintage football jersey collections known to exist. Once a star amateur player, he later worked as a scout for multiple clubs and national teams, prospecting young football talent across the globe. Through his experience and unique connections, he procured almost every item directly from players or kitmen.