In the last 30 years, moreover, he came closer than anyone to winning the World Cup for the Albiceleste – and, perhaps most importantly, very nearly solved the intractable riddle of how to get the best out of Lionel Messi in international colours.
Messi, who was preparing for what turned out to be a humiliating home defeat at the hands of Juventus when Sabella's passing was confirmed, offered a glowing tribute to his former mentor.
"It was a pleasure to share so much with you," the star said on Instagram. "Alejandro was a great person, aside from being a model professional, who shaped my career and helped me learn much from him.