Former England winger John Barnes praised Diego Maradona as the greatest player in football history during a recent podcast appearance.

Barnes' reflections highlight the enduring legacy of one of the most controversial and celebrated moments in sports history. By revisiting the goal from a player's perspective, Barnes provides insight into the psychological impact of Maradona's dominance on the pitch.

Speaking on "The Good, The Bad & The Football" podcast, Barnes discussed the goal scored during the 1986 FIFA World Cup [1]. The match took place at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Mexico [2]. Barnes said the event remains a defining moment for both the players involved and the global football community.

"He was the best ever," Barnes said [1].

Despite the goal's impact on England's tournament progression, Barnes expressed a deep admiration for the skill involved. He said the memory of the play continues to resonate with him even after approximately 40 years [1].

"That goal still gives me goosebumps when I think about it," Barnes said [3].

The 1986 encounter between Argentina and England is widely regarded as a cornerstone of World Cup lore. Maradona's performance in that tournament solidified his status as a global icon, a sentiment Barnes echoed by focusing on the sheer quality of the Argentine's game rather than the rivalry between the two nations.

“He was the best ever.”

This reflection underscores the transition of the 1986 'Hand of God' and subsequent goal from a point of national sporting trauma for England to a recognized piece of athletic art. Barnes' admission serves as a bridge between the competitive animosity of the era and a modern, objective appreciation for Maradona's technical superiority.