Unlocking the Legend: How to Create Maradona in FIFA (Detailed Guide)

While FIFA might not officially include a playable Diego Maradona in its roster, that doesn’t mean you can’t bring the magic of ‘El Pibe de Oro’ to your game! Using the game’s robust Create-a-Player feature, you can craft a remarkably accurate representation of the Argentinian legend. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you capture his unique look and playing style.

Before You Begin: Choosing Your FIFA

This guide primarily focuses on recent FIFA titles (FIFA 20 onwards). While the core principles remain similar across different versions, slight variations might exist in the menus and available customization options.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Maradona

1. Navigating to Create-a-Player

First, locate the ‘Create Player’ option. Typically, this is found within the ‘Customize’ or ‘Edit Teams’ section of the main menu. Once there, you’ll likely be presented with the option to create a new player. Select it.

2. Basic Information: Setting the Stage

• Name: Enter “Diego Maradona” or your desired nickname.
• First Name: Diego
• Last Name: Maradona
• Nationality: Choose Argentina.
• Position: This is crucial. Maradona was primarily an attacking midfielder (CAM) or a second striker (CF). Choose either of these based on your preference.
• Preferred Foot: Left.

3. Appearance: Recreating the Iconic Look

This is where the magic happens! Pay close attention to detail to nail Maradona’s unique features:

• Head: Choose a head shape that is round and somewhat broad. He had a strong, almost cherubic face.
• Skin Tone: Select a medium tan or olive skin tone that accurately reflects his complexion.
• Hairstyle: Maradona’s hair was often dark and curly. Look for a short, curly style. The specific hairstyle options will vary between FIFA versions, experiment to find the closest match.
• Facial Hair: He frequently sported a light stubble or beard. Opt for a short stubble or a very trimmed beard.
• Eyes: Choose dark brown eyes and try to replicate his intense, slightly downturned gaze.
• Eyebrows: Thick, dark eyebrows with a slight curve are the most suitable for his look.
• Nose: Select a medium-sized nose with a slightly rounded tip.
• Mouth: Choose a medium mouth with a neutral expression.
• Height: Set to 5’5″ (165 cm) to match his actual height.
• Weight: Choose a weight that corresponds with a stocky or medium build. Don’t make him too slim. Aim for around 68-70KG.

4. Attributes: Emulating His Playing Style

This is where you define Maradona’s on-field prowess. Remember his key strengths:

• Pace: While not purely a speedster, he was quick and agile. Set it to around 80-85.
• Shooting: His finishing was world-class. Max out his finishing (95+) and long shots (90+) if possible.
• Passing: He was a master of assists. Give him high vision (90+) and short/long passing (90+).
• Dribbling: This was his greatest asset. Max out dribbling (95+) and ball control (95+).
• Defending: He wasn’t known for his defensive contributions. Keep these stats low (around 40-50).
• Physical: His strength and stamina were decent. Set around 75-80.
• Skills: Assign 5-star skills to accurately replicate his exceptional footwork.
• Weak Foot: Set it to 4-star. While he primarily used his left, he could use his right.
• Traits: Add traits like “Flair,” “Technical Dribbler,” “Playmaker”, “Outside Foot Shot” to enhance his gameplay.

5. Animations and Celebrations

This is an optional step but a fun one. Browse the celebrations and animations. Select ones that best fit Maradona’s iconic movements and exuberance.

6. Saving Your Creation

Once satisfied with your adjustments, save your player. Now you can add him to your favourite club or use him in various game modes.

Tips for Fine-Tuning

• Reference Images: Keep images of Maradona handy while creating to ensure accuracy.
• Adjust as Needed: Don’t be afraid to tweak the settings until you are happy with the result.
• Gameplay Testing: Once created, play with him and fine-tune attributes that don’t feel right.

Conclusion

Creating Maradona in FIFA is a rewarding way to pay tribute to one of football’s greatest players. While not a perfect simulation, using this guide, you can craft a player who captures his essence, allowing you to relive some of his legendary moments on the virtual pitch. Happy gaming!