Maradona gives Tevez seal of approval at packed Boca unveiling

Football legend Diego Maradona was among the tens of thousands of people that packed iconic Boca Juniors stadium, La Bombonera, to welcome back Argentina star Carlos Tevez.

Carlos Tevez walks out to a heaving La Bombonera crowd. (AAP) Source: EFE

In front of a pulsating capacity crowd, the 31 year-old striker received the ultimate vote of confidence from the greatest Boca player of them all, who dropped a banner from his private box which read: "Thank you for returning Carlitos, Maradona."

Tevez returns to his first professional club in career-best form, having scored 20 goals in 32 league appearances for Juventus last season and 29 in all competitions - taking his tally at the Bianconeri to 50 in two seasons.

Despite having options elsewhere, particularly at Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid, he opted to return home.

As well as receiving the $9.6 million transfer fee for Tevez, Juventus could potentially four of the Argentine club's hot prospects with striker Guido Vadala, 18, agreeing a two-year loan deal, while the Turin giant has first option on midfield trio Rodrigo Bentancur, Franco Cristaldo and Andres Cubas – all in their teens.

The Serie champion described enigmatic striker Tevez as "undoubtedly one of the most charismatic and exhilarating forwards Juventus have ever had", acknowledging his contribution to two trophy-laden seasons at the Old Lady on Twitter:

Then it was over to Boca's fans to lay on a civic reception for the player who scored 26 goals from 75 appearances with the club from 2001 to 2004.

Tevez walked out in the number 10 shirt – previously worn by Maradona and Juan Roman Riquelme – he will don for the 30-time Argentine league champion.

"If it was up to me I would have played yesterday," Tevez said as he looks ahead to Boca's weekend meeting with Quilmes.

"Now I have to show I am ready for Saturday.

"There is no better day than this one."

Despite having options elsewhere, particularly at Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid, he opted to return home.

As for taking Riquelme's number 10 - first made famous by Maradona, Tevez said he wanted to star in his own right – and spoke of his friendship with the Argentina ace.

"Roman is an idol of the club, is an idol for me," Tevez said.

"I am his friend and will always be so. I come to not beat anyone.

"I come to make my story and win titles with the club, but Roman is the greatest.

"It's very difficult to sleep , tomorrow I want to be training with my new team-mates."

:: With Omnisport