Di Maria Returns to Rosario Central
In a noteworthy development, Argentine footballer Ángel Di María is poised to return to his native land and join Rosario Central after his current stint with Portuguese club Benfica. The announcement, made by both clubs on Thursday, is contingent upon Di María's participation in the upcoming Club World Cup with Benfica.
The return of Di María, aged 37, to his hometown club was confirmed via a social media post by Rosario Central. The winger's contract with Benfica is set to expire in July 2025, but after the Club World Cup, he will make the emotional transition back to his roots.
Benfica has confirmed that Di María will first compete in the Club World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United States between June 14 and July 13. The team has been placed in Group C, alongside Boca Juniors, Auckland City, and Bayern Munich.
Remembering his initial rise in professional football, Di María joined Benfica in 2007, shortly after making his senior debut with Rosario Central. After three years with the club, he moved to Real Madrid, kick-starting a successful career that included spells at Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Juventus, before returning to Benfica two seasons ago.
Last summer, a potential return to Argentina was close but ultimately thwarted due to threats against his family, causing him to renew his contract with Benfica. Di María's emotional connection to Rosario Central was evident during the last round of the championship, where he was seen tearing up after the game against Sporting de Braga. This outpouring of emotion was repeated in the Portuguese Cup final against Sporting, following their defeat.
Despite physical challenges, Di María scored 15 goals and provided 9 assists in 40 matches for Benfica this season. After the conclusion of the Club World Cup and his contractual obligations, he will return to his boyhood club, hoping to revitalize his career in a familiar setting.
This emotional homecoming could bring improved squad depth to Rosario Central, potentially leading to better results in the Argentine Primera Division. Meanwhile, increased fan support and a richer club atmosphere are also expected outcomes, making for an exciting new chapter in Di María's illustrious career.
After the Club World Cup, Di Maria will make the emotional transition back to his roots at his boyhood club, Rosario Central. The winger, having scored 15 goals and provided 9 assists this season with Benfica, hopes to revitalize his career in a familiar setting that could lead to improved results in European-leagues like the Argentine Primera Division.
