Diego Maradona led Argentina to the quarter-finals of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Diego Maradona was hired Monday to coach United Arab Emirates club Al Wasl on a two-year contract.

Maradona, who has been out of coaching since leading Argentina to the World Cup quarter-finals last year, will be in charge when the next season opens in September.

Al Wasl officials?did not disclose details of the contract announced yesterday, saying only that it was for two seasons and that he would be responsible for leading the club "to new heights." The club said that Maradona was on his way back to Argentina and could not be reached for comment. He is expected back next month.