Title: Bid Farewell: Angel Di Maria Hangs Up His Argentina Jersey
In the sprawling world of football, few careers shine as brightly as that of Angel Di Maria. A proud Argentine, he etched his name in the annals of Champions League glory with Real Madrid in 2014, claimed titles in France and Portugal, but it's his accomplishments with the Albiceleste that truly define him. Now, Di Maria announces his retirement from the Argentine national team, a decision made as he prepares to don the jersey one final time in the 2023 Copa América.
Emotional Announcement
With a lump in his throat and sorrow etched across his face, Di Maria shared his decision on Instagram. "The Copa will mark my last time representing Argentina," he wrote. "Goodbye to the greatest thing that has ever happened to me in my career." In a career spanning nearly two decades, the mercurial winger left his mark at 136 international appearances, scoring 29 times for the South American powerhouse.
Time To Shine
A vital cog in Argentina's victory at the 2022 World Cup, Di Maria's crowning achievement came in the form of a stunning strike against France in the final, securing a place for Argentina in soccer history. In a country that has cherished the hopes and dreams of countless players, Di Maria stood out as an exceptional talent, transfixed by the magic of the game. His national team triumphs, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup victory and the 2021 Copa América title, have cemented his place as an Argentine legend.
A Journey In Clubs
Di Maria's football journey spanned the globe, starring in the Champions League with Real Madrid, winning league titles with Paris Saint-Germain, and charming crowds with his skill at Manchester United. His career saw highs and lows, but his undeniable passion for the game never wavered. Most recently, Di Maria joined Juventus as a free agent, establishing himself as a key figure in Turin.
International Tours
Di Maria's career exudes an international flair, as he journeyed to Portugal to secure the Primeira Liga and Taça da Liga titles with Benfica. His move to Real Madrid catapulted the young Argentine into the limelight, and he soon reaped the rewards, winning Spain's top-flight title and the Champions League. Despite a rapid turnover of clubs, Di Maria remained a force to be reckoned with, consistently delivering performances that captivated audiences.
The Copa América Comes To America
Home to the largest stadiums in the New World and an array of iconic cities, the United States has been selected as the host for the 2024 Copa América, which kicks off on June 20 and concludes on July 14. Argentina, led by Di Maria and an array of world-class talent, will take to the pitch in a bid to defend their title. The tournament will serve as a crucial precursor to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the United States will co-host with Canada and Mexico, offering a tantalizing glimpse of what's to come.
A Legacy That Endures
Di Maria's decision to retire from international football comes after a dazzling career that saw him conquer club football in Spain, Portugal, England, and Italy. In a fiercely competitive landscape, he distinguished himself through his unwavering passion for the game and his ability to rise above adversity. Di Maria's place among Argentina's legends is undeniably secure, a testament to his commitment towards football and his country.
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Alongside his achievements in Argentina and Europe, Angel Di Maria boasts an impressive resume in both club and international arenas:
- Club career: In his early days at Benfica, Di Maria secured the Primeira Liga title, which brought an end to a five-year title drought for the Portuguese giants. He also bagged two victories in the Taça da Liga. Di Maria's successful stint with Real Madrid saw the Spanish giants win the 2011-12 La Liga title and, more notably, the 2013-14 UEFA Champions League. He joined Manchester United in a record-breaking transfer, but his time at the English club was short-lived. However, Di Maria returned to PSG, where he won five Ligue 1 titles, five Coupe de France, and four Coupe de la Ligue. He also starred in PSG's first-ever Champions League final in 2020, establishing himself as one of the club's most influential figures. Di Maria joined Juventus in 2022, scoring a hat-trick against Nantes in one of his earliest appearances with the Italian giants.
- International achievements: In the blood-and-thunder environment of international football, Di Maria was a constant threat to opponents. He marked Argentina's stunning World Cup victory in 2022 by assisting Lionel Messi's opening goal against Mexico. Di Maria scored Argentina's second goal in the thrilling final against France, immortalizing his name in the annals of Argentine football. Di Maria's contribution to Argentina's triumph at the 2021 Copa América was also pivotal, as he bagged the only goal in the final against Brazil, securing a 15th title for Argentina in the tournament. Di Maria led Argentine to an additional trophy at the 2022 Finalissima, as Argentina outclassed Italy 3-0.
- Personal life and recognition: Di Maria was affectionately nicknamed "Fideo" (noodle) due to his slender frame. Of Italian descent, he became a naturalized Italian citizen, further cementing his connection to the game. Married to Jorgelina Cardoso, he became a father to two beautiful daughters, Mia and Pia, who was born premature and miraculously survived thanks to intensive care. Di Maria's accomplishments in the football world were recognized with inclusion in the 2014 FIFA FIFPRO World 11 and a nomination in the 2022 FIFA World Cup squad.
- Recent decisions: Despite the temptation of lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia, Di Maria opted to return to his beloved Benfica in 2022. His decision to retire from international football after the 2024 Copa América marked the end of an iconic career and the beginning of a well-deserved retirement.
