Diego Maradona would return to coach Argentina for free after being left hurt by their World Cup elimination.
The 57-year-old great was in the stands as Jorge Sampaoli's side slipped to a 4-3 defeat against France in the round of 16 and said his energetic demeanour at the game did not reflect his feelings about the outcome of the match.
"Yes and I would do it for free, I would not ask for anything in return," said Maradona.
When asked about his depiction in the media, he added: "They think I'm happy but my heart hurts.
"I wish God gave me the strength to return to the field. The years and life go on for everyone and I get to 57 years of age watching my team beaten by a team that I do not think is one of the best at the World Cup.
"It makes me feel bad - everything we built with much effort was destroyed very easily."
0 - Argentina have never named the same starting 11 in 15 games under Jorge Sampaoli. Experimentation. June 30, 2018
Having watched Brazil qualify for the last eight with a 2-0 victory over Mexico on Monday, Maradona backed Selecao head coach Tite to take his side all the way in Russia.
"I saw a very strong team from Brazil that is on its way to the title," said the 1986 World Cup winner. "I like Tite a lot because he stops teams.
"Mexico wanted to play as they did against Germany [a 1-0 Group F victory] and they gave everything. Mexico cannot be asked for more."
Maradona also passed comment on the on-field antics of Brazil striker Neymar, who scored Brazil's first goal but was also seen reacting theatrically when a Mexico player allegedly stepped on his foot.
"Neymar must be told: 'Either you make us cry or you make us laugh'," said Maradona. "When the Mexican stepped on him it was pitiful, but seeing him running joyous."
