The former Argentina forward died at the age of 60 after suffering a cardiac arrest.
Maradona is considered as one of the best footballers to ever grace the pitch. During his distinguished playing days, the Buenos Aires-born superstar played for great clubs like Boca Juniors, Barcelona and Sevilla, but his time at Napoli is arguably one of his career highlight.
‘El Pibe de Oro’ as he was popular called, spent seven years in Naples and won five trophies with the Partenopei which includes two Serie A titles and one Uefa Cup.
He also scored 115 goals in 259 appearances which was between 1984 and 1991 for Napoli.
In a letter published by Napoli on Thursday, De Laurentiis wrote: “Dear Diego, you leave a great testimony of what a man is with all his fragility, strength, total love for life and for his neighbour. A unique and unrepeatable sample.
“Your weakness, your stains, your errors are equal to your immense greatness to cancel themselves in the myth.
“It has been said by many that it represents the synthesis between genius and recklessness. A painter of the balloon: unique brushstrokes to remember in the Louvre of the greatest artists.
“Like a restless Caravaggio who’s indomitable and recklessness are forgiven for his immense grandeur.
“I think it’s right to give the San Paolo your name, to still have you with us as a witness of the excellent path that his team has taken.
“Yours were indelible years in the memory of the Neapolitans. Symbol of a coveted redemption and desired resurrection.
“Thanks Diego, you are and you will stay with us all.”
