Ángel Di María
Argentine footballer.
Ángel Di María, born on February 14, 1988, in Rosario, Argentina, has had an illustrious career spanning nearly two decades at the highest level of football. He began his professional journey with Rosario Central in 2005, quickly establishing himself as a promising talent. In 2007, Di María made his first move to Europe, joining Benfica.
His performances in Portugal caught the eye of Real Madrid, who signed him in 2010 for €25 million. At Madrid, Di María became a key player, contributing significantly to their 2011-12 La Liga title and the 2013-14 UEFA Champions League victory. In 2014, Di María transferred to Manchester United for a then-British record fee of £59.7 million. However, his stint in England was short-lived, and he moved to Paris Saint-Germain in 2015. At PSG, Di María enjoyed his most successful club period, winning numerous domestic titles and reaching the 2020 Champions League final. He became PSG's all-time leader in assists and their ninth-highest goalscorer. After a brief spell with Juventus in the 2022-23 season, Di María returned to Benfica in 2023, coming full circle in his club career. Internationally, Di María has been a crucial player for Argentina. He was part of the team that won gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, scoring the winning goal in the final. His international career reached its pinnacle with Argentina's victories in the 2021 Copa América and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
In both finals, Di María scored crucial goals, cementing his status as a big-game player. Throughout his career, Di María has been known for his exceptional dribbling skills, vision, and ability to create chances. He's primarily played as a right winger or attacking midfielder, using his left foot to great effect. His versatility and work rate have made him a valuable asset to every team he's played for. With over 100 caps for Argentina, multiple domestic titles in different countries, and success on the international stage, Ángel Di María is widely regarded as one of the best players of his generation. His career is a testament to his skill, adaptability, and enduring quality at the highest level of football.
Family life & youth football
Ángel Di María was born on February 14, 1988, in Rosario, Argentina. He grew up in a poor family and started playing football at a young age. At three, he joined Torito, a local club, where he played until 1992. From 1992 to 2005, Di María was part of Rosario Central's youth system. During this time, he honed his skills and caught the attention of scouts.
His parents worked multiple jobs to support his football career, with his father even taking a job at a coal yard. Di María made his professional debut for Rosario Central in 2005 at the age of 17. He quickly established himself in the first team, making 35 appearances and scoring 6 goals over two seasons. His performances at Rosario Central led to interest from European clubs, ultimately resulting in his move to Benfica in 2007, marking the beginning of his European career.
Breaking into the first team
The 2005/06 season marked Ángel Di María's debut in professional football with Rosario Central. At just 17 years old, he made his first appearance for the senior team on December 14, 2005, in a 2-2 draw against Independiente. Di María came on as a substitute, replacing Emiliano Vecchio. Throughout the season, Di María made 14 appearances for Rosario Central, all as a substitute. While he didn't score any goals during this campaign, these appearances were crucial for his development and integration into the first team.
This season was primarily about Di María gaining experience at the senior level and adapting to the pace and physicality of professional football. His performances, albeit in limited minutes, showed glimpses of the talent that would soon flourish. By the end of the 2005/06 season, Di María had taken his first steps in professional football, laying the foundation for what would become an illustrious career.
The 2006/07 season was a breakthrough year for Ángel Di María at Rosario Central. At just 18 years old, he established himself as a regular in the first team, making 25 appearances in the Argentine Primera División. Di María scored 6 goals during this campaign, showcasing his potential as an attacking midfielder. His performances caught the eye of several European clubs, with his speed, dribbling ability, and creativity standing out. Di María's left foot became a potent weapon for Rosario Central, whether delivering crosses or taking shots on goal.
One of his most notable performances came on November 24, 2006, when he scored his first professional goal in a 4-2 victory over Quilmes. This goal marked the beginning of Di María's rise to prominence in Argentine football. Throughout the season, Di María's development was evident, and he became an increasingly important player for Rosario Central. His performances not only helped the team but also earned him a place in Argentina's U20 squad for the 2007 FIFA U20 World Cup.
By the end of the season, Di María had firmly established himself as one of the most promising young talents in Argentine football, setting the stage for his move to Europe the following year.
The 2007/08 season marked Ángel Di María's first full campaign with Benfica's senior team. At just 19 years old, Di María began to make his mark in Portuguese football. In the Primeira Liga, he made 23 appearances, scoring 3 goals and providing 4 assists. While these numbers were modest, they hinted at the potential that would soon be realized. Di María's performances were characterized by his speed, dribbling ability, and creativity on the wing.
He quickly became known for his ability to beat defenders and create chances for his teammates. Benfica finished the league in fourth place, with Di María playing a role in the team's attacking play. In cup competitions, Di María featured in both the Taça de Portugal and the Taça da Liga, gaining valuable experience in knockout football. He also made his European debut in the UEFA Cup, appearing in 5 matches as Benfica reached the group stage. One of Di María's most notable performances came in a league match against Leixões on April 20, 2008, where he scored his first goal for Benfica in a 2-0 victory.
This goal showcased his potential and hinted at the impact he would have in the coming seasons. By the end of the 2007/08 season, Di María had made 35 appearances across all competitions, scoring 5 goals and providing 5 assists. This season laid the foundation for his rapid development and future success at Benfica and beyond.
The 2008/09 season was a pivotal one for Ángel Di María at Benfica, as he continued to develop and showcase his talents. In the Primeira Liga, Di María made 26 appearances, scoring 5 goals and providing 8 assists. His performances were instrumental in helping Benfica secure a third-place finish in the league.
Di María's creativity and dribbling skills were on full display throughout the season. He formed an effective attacking partnership with players like Óscar Cardozo, contributing significantly to Benfica's offensive play. His ability to create chances and deliver precise crosses made him a valuable asset to the team. In European competitions, Di María featured in both the UEFA Champions League qualifiers and the UEFA Cup (now Europa League).
Benfica started in the Champions League third qualifying round but were eliminated by Napoli, dropping into the UEFA Cup. In the latter competition, Di María helped the team reach the group stage, where they were eventually eliminated. One of Di María's standout performances came in a league match against Nacional on March 22, 2009, where he scored two goals in a 3-1 victory. This performance highlighted his growing importance to the team and his ability to influence matches. The season also saw Di María continue to attract attention from larger European clubs. His consistent performances and potential for growth made him a target for several top teams, setting the stage for his eventual move to Real Madrid the following year.
By the end of the 2008/09 season, Di María had made 45 appearances across all competitions for Benfica, scoring 8 goals and providing 11 assists. His development during this season was crucial in establishing him as one of the most promising young wingers in European football, paving the way for his future success at the highest level of the sport.
Development and breakthrough
The 2009/10 season was Ángel Di María's final year at Benfica and the one that catapulted him to global attention. Under the management of Jorge Jesus, Di María played a crucial role in Benfica's successful campaign. In the Primeira Liga, Di María made 29 appearances, scoring 6 goals and providing 11 assists. His performances were instrumental in helping Benfica secure their first league title in five years, finishing five points clear of second-placed Braga. Di María's creativity and dribbling skills were on full display throughout the season.
He formed a formidable attacking partnership with players like Óscar Cardozo and Javier Saviola, contributing significantly to Benfica's impressive tally of 78 league goals. In European competitions, Di María featured in both the UEFA Champions League and Europa League. Benfica started in the Champions League group stage but finished third, dropping into the Europa League. In the latter competition, Di María helped the team reach the quarter-finals, where they were eliminated by Liverpool. One of Di María's standout performances came in the Europa League round of 16 against Marseille. In the second leg, he scored a crucial goal in a 2-1 victory that saw Benfica advance on away goals. The season also saw Di María win the Taça da Liga (Portuguese League Cup) with Benfica, adding another trophy to his collection.
His consistent performances throughout the campaign attracted interest from several top European clubs. By the end of the 2009/10 season, Di María had made 44 appearances across all competitions for Benfica, scoring 10 goals and providing 17 assists. His exceptional form not only helped Benfica to domestic success but also earned him a place in Argentina's squad for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. This season was pivotal in Di María's career, showcasing his ability to perform at a high level consistently and in important matches. His performances for Benfica laid the foundation for his subsequent move to Real Madrid, marking the beginning of his ascent to becoming one of the world's top wingers.
The 2010/11 season marked Ángel Di María's debut at Real Madrid following his €25 million transfer from Benfica. This was a significant step in his career, joining one of the world's biggest clubs under the management of José Mourinho. Di María quickly adapted to his new surroundings, making his competitive debut for Real Madrid on August 29, 2010, in a 0-0 draw against Mallorca. He scored his first league goal for the club on September 18, 2010, in a 2-1 away win over Real Sociedad, showcasing his ability to contribute immediately to the team's attack.
In La Liga, Di María made 32 appearances, scoring 6 goals and providing 13 assists. His creativity and speed on the wing made him a valuable asset to Real Madrid's attacking play, forming a potent partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema. Di María's performances in the UEFA Champions League were particularly noteworthy. He scored his first Champions League goal for Real Madrid on September 28, 2010, in a 1-0 victory against Auxerre. Throughout the competition, he made 10 appearances, scoring 3 goals and providing 5 assists. His contributions were crucial in helping Real Madrid reach the semi-finals, where they were eliminated by Barcelona. One of Di María's most memorable moments of the season came in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on April 20, 2011. Although he was sent off in extra time, his earlier cross had led to Cristiano Ronaldo's winning goal, securing Real Madrid's first Copa del Rey title since 1993.
Despite the success in the Copa del Rey, Real Madrid finished the season without a league title, coming second to Barcelona. However, Di María's individual performances were highly praised, and he quickly became a fan favorite at the Santiago Bernabéu. By the end of his debut season at Real Madrid, Di María had made 53 appearances across all competitions, scoring 9 goals and providing 20 assists. His ability to create chances, combined with his work rate and versatility, made him an integral part of Mourinho's squad, setting the stage for even greater contributions in the seasons to come.
The 2011/12 season was a highly successful one for both Ángel Di María and Real Madrid. Under José Mourinho's management, Real Madrid won La Liga with a record 100 points, and Di María played a crucial role in this triumph. In La Liga, Di María made 23 appearances, starting 20 matches and coming off the bench 3 times. Despite missing a portion of the season due to injury, he managed to score 5 goals and provide an impressive 15 assists.
His total playing time in the league amounted to 1,651 minutes, during which he consistently demonstrated his ability to create chances for his teammates, particularly for the prolific Cristiano Ronaldo. One of Di María's most memorable performances came in El Clásico against Barcelona on April 21, 2012. In a crucial match that essentially decided the league title, Di María provided an assist for Cristiano Ronaldo's winning goal in a 2-1 victory at Camp Nou. This win all but secured the La Liga title for Real Madrid. In the UEFA Champions League, Di María made 10 appearances, scoring 3 goals and providing 6 assists. Real Madrid reached the semi-finals of the competition, where they were eliminated by Bayern Munich on penalties. Di María played in both legs of the semi-final and scored in the second leg, but his efforts weren't enough to see the team through to the final.
The Copa del Rey campaign saw Di María make 4 appearances, scoring 1 goal and providing 2 assists. However, Real Madrid were eliminated in the quarter-finals by Barcelona, in a tie where Di María featured prominently. Throughout the season, Di María's partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema in attack was particularly potent. His ability to deliver precise crosses and through balls made him an invaluable asset to Real Madrid's attacking play.
Despite missing part of the season due to a hamstring injury, Di María ended the campaign with 7 goals and 24 assists across all competitions. His performances were crucial in Real Madrid's record-breaking La Liga triumph, which saw them score 121 goals in the league, the highest in the club's history at that time. The 2011/12 season cemented Di María's status as one of the best wingers in world football, with his creativity and work rate earning him praise from fans, teammates, and pundits alike. His contributions were instrumental in what was one of Real Madrid's most successful domestic seasons in recent history.
The 2012/13 season was a challenging one for Ángel Di María at Real Madrid. Under manager José Mourinho, Di María faced increased competition for his position, particularly with the emergence of young talents like Mesut Özil and the arrival of Luka Modrić. In La Liga, Di María made 32 appearances, starting 22 matches and coming off the bench 10 times. He scored 7 goals and provided 6 assists, showcasing his ability to contribute to the team's attack despite not always being a guaranteed starter.
His total playing time in the league amounted to 1,970 minutes, reflecting the rotation policy implemented by Mourinho. One of Di María's standout performances came in a 5-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao on November 17, 2012, where he scored two goals and demonstrated his importance to the team. However, consistency was an issue throughout the season, with Di María alternating between brilliant displays and quieter performances. In the UEFA Champions League, Di María made 9 appearances, scoring 1 goal and providing 3 assists.
Real Madrid reached the semi-finals of the competition, where they were eliminated by Borussia Dortmund. Di María played in both legs of the semi-final, but couldn't help his team overcome the German side. The Copa del Rey provided some consolation for Real Madrid, as they reached the final of the competition. Di María played a role in this cup run, making 5 appearances and scoring 1 goal. However, Real Madrid lost the final 2-1 to local rivals Atlético Madrid, in a match where Di María came on as a substitute but couldn't change the outcome. Off the field, this season was marked by speculation about Di María's future at the club. With the team underperforming relative to expectations (finishing second in La Liga, 15 points behind Barcelona), there were rumors of potential departures, including Di María's.
However, he ultimately remained with the club for the following season. Despite the challenges, Di María ended the season with a total of 9 goals and 17 assists across all competitions, demonstrating his value to the team even in a turbulent year. His ability to play in multiple positions across the midfield and attack helped him maintain a significant role in the squad, even as the team struggled to meet its lofty ambitions.
Becoming an established player
The 2013/14 season was one of Ángel Di María's most successful at Real Madrid. Under new manager Carlo Ancelotti, Di María adapted to a new role, often playing as a central midfielder in a 4-3-3 formation alongside Luka Modrić and Xabi Alonso. In La Liga, Di María made 34 appearances, scoring 4 goals and providing a league-high 17 assists. His creativity and work rate were crucial in Real Madrid's attacking play, as he formed a formidable partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale.
Di María's performances in the UEFA Champions League were particularly noteworthy. He played a key role in Real Madrid's journey to the final, contributing 3 goals and 6 assists in 11 appearances. His most memorable performance came in the final against Atlético Madrid on May 24, 2014. Although he didn't score, Di María's dribbling run led to Gareth Bale's crucial goal in extra time, helping Real Madrid secure their long-awaited "La Décima" (tenth European Cup/Champions League title).
For his efforts, Di María was named man of the match in the final. In domestic cup competitions, Di María continued to excel. He scored the opening goal in Real Madrid's 2-1 victory over Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final on April 16, 2014, showcasing his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Throughout the season, Di María's versatility was evident as he seamlessly transitioned between playing as a winger and a central midfielder. His work rate and tactical intelligence made him an invaluable asset to Ancelotti's system. By the end of the season, Di María had made 51 appearances across all competitions, scoring 11 goals and providing 26 assists. His performances earned him a place in Argentina's squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where he would continue to showcase his talents on the global stage.
The 2013/14 season was arguably Di María's best at Real Madrid, cementing his status as one of the world's top midfielders and setting the stage for his record-breaking transfer to Manchester United the following summer.
The 2014/15 season marked a significant change in Ángel Di María's career as he moved from Real Madrid to Manchester United for a then-British record transfer fee of £59.7 million. This transfer came after Di María's impressive performances in the previous season, including his man of the match display in the 2014 UEFA Champions League final. Di María's start at Manchester United was promising.
He made his debut on August 30, 2014, in a 0-0 draw against Burnley. His impact was immediate, as he scored his first goal for the club in his home debut against Queens Park Rangers on September 14, contributing to a 4-0 victory. This performance set high expectations for the Argentine winger. Throughout the season, Di María showed flashes of brilliance that justified his hefty price tag. He scored a memorable chip against Leicester City and provided several assists, showcasing his creativity and vision. By the end of 2014, he had scored three goals and provided six assists in the Premier League. However, Di María's form began to dip in the second half of the season.
He struggled with injuries and adaptation to the physicality of English football. His performances became inconsistent, and he found himself in and out of the starting lineup under manager Louis van Gaal. Off the field, Di María faced personal challenges, including a traumatic burglary attempt at his home in January 2015. This incident reportedly affected his and his family's comfort in Manchester, contributing to his difficulties in settling in England.
Despite these challenges, Di María ended the season with 4 goals and 10 assists in 32 appearances across all competitions for Manchester United. While these numbers were respectable, they fell short of the expectations set by his transfer fee and his performances at Real Madrid. The season concluded with Manchester United finishing fourth in the Premier League, securing a return to the Champions League. However, Di María's future at the club was already in doubt, with rumors of a potential move away from Old Trafford circulating.
The 2015/16 season marked Ángel Di María's first year at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) after his high-profile transfer from Manchester United. The Argentine winger quickly made an impact in his new surroundings, demonstrating his skill and creativity throughout the campaign. Di María made 29 appearances in Ligue 1, starting 26 matches and coming off the bench 3 times.
He scored 10 goals and provided 18 assists, making him one of the standout players in the league. From the outset, Di María showcased his playmaking abilities, becoming a key figure in PSG's attacking lineup alongside stars like Edinson Cavani and Zlatan Ibrahimović. His vision and passing range were evident as he consistently created scoring opportunities for his teammates. Di María's 18 assists in Ligue 1 highlighted his importance in the build-up play, as he helped PSG secure the league title with an impressive 30-point lead over second-placed Monaco. In addition to his league contributions, Di María also played a crucial role in domestic cup competitions. He made 4 appearances in the Coupe de France, scoring 2 goals and providing 2 assists, helping PSG advance deep into the tournament.
In the Coupe de la Ligue, he made 4 appearances as well, contributing 2 goals and 2 assists, further solidifying his status as a vital player in knockout competitions. Di María's performances in the UEFA Champions League were also noteworthy. He played in 10 matches, scoring 3 goals and providing 3 assists. His ability to perform on the European stage was crucial for PSG, as they aimed to make a significant impact in the tournament.
However, the season ended in disappointment for the club, as they were eliminated in the quarter-finals by Manchester City, a setback that highlighted the ongoing challenges PSG faced in their quest for European glory. Overall, the 2015/16 season was a successful debut for Di María at PSG. His contributions helped the club secure a domestic treble, winning the Ligue 1 title, the Coupe de France, and the Coupe de la Ligue. His ability to adapt quickly to his new environment and make an immediate impact showcased his quality as a player. As the season progressed, Di María became an integral part of PSG's attacking unit, and his performances laid the foundation for future successes in the seasons to come.
The season not only marked a new chapter in his career but also reaffirmed his status as one of the top wingers in European football.
The 2016/17 season was a pivotal year for Ángel Di María at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) as he continued to establish himself as one of the key players in the squad. Di María made 29 appearances in Ligue 1, starting 24 matches and coming off the bench 5 times. He scored 6 goals and provided 6 assists in the league, showcasing his ability to contribute both as a scorer and a creator. The season began with high expectations for PSG, who were looking to defend their Ligue 1 title and make a significant impact in the UEFA Champions League. Di María's form was somewhat inconsistent at the start of the season, but he quickly found his rhythm.
He scored his first league goal on November 19, 2016, in a 2-0 victory against Nantes, which marked the beginning of a more productive phase for him. One of the highlights of Di María's season came in the Champions League. On February 14, 2017, he delivered a stunning performance in the first leg of the round of 16 against Barcelona at the Parc des Princes. Di María scored two goals, helping PSG to a remarkable 4-0 victory. His performance was instrumental in establishing a commanding lead, but the team faced heartbreak in the second leg, losing 6-1 at Camp Nou and being eliminated on aggregate. This match was one of the most dramatic comebacks in Champions League history, overshadowing Di María's earlier contributions.
Domestically, Di María also played a crucial role in the Coupe de la Ligue. On April 1, 2017, he scored in the final against Monaco, contributing to a 4-1 victory that secured the trophy for PSG. His ability to perform in high-stakes matches was a testament to his experience and skill. Despite the disappointment in the Champions League, Di María's overall contributions were significant. He ended the season with a total of 8 goals and 10 assists across all competitions, underlining his importance to the team's attacking play. His versatility allowed him to play in various positions, whether as a winger or in a more central role, adapting to the tactical needs of the team.
The 2016/17 season solidified Di María's status as a key player for PSG, showcasing his ability to influence games at both domestic and European levels. His performances continued to endear him to the PSG fanbase, and he remained a vital part of the squad as they aimed for further success in the coming years.
Peak of his career
The 2017/18 season was another strong campaign for Di María at PSG. He made 45 appearances across all competitions, scoring 21 goals and providing 12 assists. This was his most prolific season in terms of goal-scoring since joining PSG. In domestic competitions, Di María played a key role in PSG's dominance.
The team won the Ligue 1 title, reclaiming it from Monaco. On May 8, 2018, Di María played as PSG won 2–0 against Les Herbiers to clinch the 2017–18 Coupe de France, completing a domestic treble. In the Champions League, PSG had a strong group stage performance but were eliminated in the round of 16 by Real Madrid. Despite the early exit from Europe's premier competition, Di María's individual performances throughout the season were impressive. This season saw Di María further cement his importance to PSG's squad. His ability to play in multiple positions across the front line and his consistent goal contributions made him a vital part of the team's attacking setup.
The Argentine's performances helped PSG maintain their dominance in French football while also contributing to their European campaigns. Both the 2018/19 and 2017/18 seasons highlighted Di María's enduring quality and his ability to perform at the highest level, contributing significantly to PSG's domestic success while also making his mark in European competitions.
In the 2018/19 season, Ángel Di María continued to be a key player for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). He made 45 appearances across all competitions, scoring 19 goals and providing 16 assists. This was one of his most productive seasons in terms of goal contributions since joining PSG. In Ligue 1, Di María played a crucial role in PSG's title-winning campaign.
His performances helped the team secure their second consecutive league title under manager Thomas Tuchel. The Champions League campaign was particularly notable for Di María. In the round of 16 first leg against his former club Manchester United, he played a significant role despite sustaining an injury following a tackle from Ashley Young. Di María refused to be substituted and in the final moments of the game, he assisted Kylian Mbappé's goal for a 2–0 win at Old Trafford. However, PSG's Champions League journey ended in disappointment as they lost 3–1 in the second leg and were eliminated in the round of 16 for the third consecutive season. Throughout the season, Di María showcased his versatility, playing both as a winger and in a more central attacking midfield role.
His ability to create chances and score goals made him an invaluable asset to PSG's attack, complementing the talents of players like Neymar and Mbappé.
The 2019/20 season was another strong campaign for Di María at PSG. In Ligue 1, he made 26 appearances, starting 23 matches and coming on as a substitute 3 times. He played a total of 2,005 minutes in the league, scoring 8 goals and providing 14 assists.
This season was notable for PSG's success in domestic competitions and their run to the UEFA Champions League final. Di María played a crucial role in the team's achievements, contributing both goals and assists across all competitions. In Ligue 1, PSG were crowned champions after the season was curtailed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Di María's 14 assists in the league demonstrated his importance to the team's attacking play. The Champions League campaign was particularly memorable for PSG and Di María. The team reached the final of the competition for the first time in their history, with Di María playing a key role in their journey. Although PSG ultimately lost the final 1-0 to Bayern Munich, Di María's performances throughout the tournament showcased his ability to perform at the highest level of European football.
Throughout both seasons, Di María continued to demonstrate his exceptional technical skills, vision, and ability to create chances for his teammates. His performances in these campaigns further solidified his status as one of PSG's key players and one of the most talented wingers in world football.
In the 2020/21 season, Ángel Di María continued to be a key player for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). He made 27 appearances in Ligue 1, starting 23 matches and coming off the bench 4 times. Di María played a total of 1,863 minutes in the league, scoring 4 goals and providing 9 assists. The season began with controversy for Di María, as he received a four-match suspension for a spitting incident with Álvaro González during Le Classique on September 13, 2020. This suspension caused him to miss league matches against Angers, Nîmes, Dijon, and Nantes. Despite this setback, Di María made significant contributions in the UEFA Champions League.
On November 4, 2020, he scored the opening goal in a 2-1 defeat against RB Leipzig. In a match against İstanbul Başakşehir on December 9, 2020, Di María recorded two assists, bringing his total Champions League assists to 32. This achievement made him the player with the third-most assists in Champions League history, behind only Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. On March 12, 2021, Di María extended his contract with PSG for one more season, with an option for a second year.
However, his Champions League campaign ended in disappointment when he was sent off in the semi-final against Manchester City on May 4, 2021, for stamping on Fernandinho in an off-the-ball incident. This resulted in a three-match ban in European competitions. The season ended on a high note for Di María and PSG. In the 2021 Coupe de France Final against Monaco, which PSG won 2-0, Di María broke the all-time assist record for PSG by setting up a goal for Kylian Mbappé. This was his 104th assist as a PSG player, cementing his status as one of the club's most influential players.
Senior professional & continued importance
In the 2021/22 season, Ángel Di María continued to showcase his talents at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) as he entered his final year with the club. The Argentine winger made 31 appearances across all competitions, starting 26 matches and coming off the bench 5 times. He contributed 5 goals and 8 assists, demonstrating his ability to influence games despite being in the latter stages of his career. In Ligue 1, Di María played a pivotal role in PSG’s title-winning campaign.
The team finished the season with 86 points, comfortably ahead of second-placed Marseille. Di María’s experience and creativity were essential in several key matches. One of his standout performances came in a 4-2 victory over Nantes in November 2021, where he scored a goal and provided an assist, showcasing his ability to perform in crucial moments. The Champions League was a mixed bag for PSG, as they were eliminated in the round of 16 by Real Madrid. Di María featured prominently in both legs of the tie, but despite a strong first leg performance, PSG could not hold onto their aggregate lead.
This disappointing exit highlighted the ongoing challenges PSG faced in their quest for European glory. The season concluded on an emotional note for Di María. In his final match for PSG against Metz on May 21, 2022, he scored a goal and provided an assist in a commanding 5-0 victory. The match served as a farewell to the Parc des Princes crowd, who honored him with a standing ovation. Di María's contributions to PSG over his five seasons at the club were significant, and he left a lasting legacy as one of the team's key players during a period of domestic dominance.
Throughout the season, Di María's technical skills, vision, and ability to create chances for his teammates remained evident. His partnership with stars like Lionel Messi and Neymar added depth to PSG's attacking options, although injuries limited his consistency at times. As the season progressed, it became clear that Di María was preparing for a new chapter in his career, with rumors swirling about potential moves after his departure from PSG. Ultimately, the 2021/22 season encapsulated Di María's journey at PSG, marked by memorable performances and a heartfelt farewell.
His time at the club solidified his status as one of the most talented wingers of his generation, and fans celebrated his contributions as he prepared to embark on his next adventure.
The 2022/23 season marked a new beginning for Ángel Di María as he joined Juventus on a free transfer after leaving Paris Saint-Germain. The Argentine winger signed a one-year contract with the Italian giants, bringing his wealth of experience and skill to a team looking to reclaim its status in Serie A and make a mark in European competitions. Di María made an immediate impact at Juventus, scoring on his debut in a 3-0 victory against Sassuolo on August 15, 2022.
His ability to create chances and provide crucial assists quickly endeared him to the fans. Throughout the season, he made 40 appearances in all competitions, scoring 8 goals and providing 7 assists. His performances were characterized by his dribbling, vision, and ability to link up with teammates, particularly in the attacking third. In Serie A, Juventus faced a challenging campaign, finishing fourth in the league with 70 points. Di María's contributions were vital in key matches, including a memorable goal against Inter Milan in a thrilling 2-0 victory.
However, injuries hampered his consistency, as he missed several matches throughout the season, limiting his ability to build momentum. Juventus' Champions League campaign was disappointing, as they finished third in their group and were relegated to the Europa League. Di María shone in the Europa League, particularly in the knockout stages. He delivered a standout performance in a 3-0 victory over Nantes, scoring a hat-trick that showcased his clinical finishing and ability to perform on the European stage. The Coppa Italia provided another opportunity for Di María to shine. He scored a crucial goal in the semi-final against Inter Milan, helping Juventus secure a spot in the final.
However, they ultimately fell short in the final, losing to Fiorentina. Off the pitch, Di María's leadership and experience were invaluable as he guided younger players in the squad. His professionalism and work ethic set an example for teammates, and he quickly became a fan favorite at Juventus. As the season drew to a close, Di María confirmed that he would not extend his contract with Juventus, signaling the end of his one-year stint with the club.
Despite the challenges faced during the season, Di María's impact was undeniable. He left Juventus with fond memories and the respect of fans and teammates alike, further solidifying his legacy as one of the most talented wingers of his generation. The 2022/23 season was a testament to his enduring quality and adaptability in a new environment, as he continued to make significant contributions on the pitch.
Ángel Di María's 2023/24 season marked a triumphant return to Benfica, the club where he first gained prominence in Europe. At 35 years old, Di María demonstrated that he still possessed the quality and influence that had made him one of the world's best wingers for over a decade. In the Primeira Liga, Di María made a significant impact, playing 24.6 90-minute equivalents across the season.
He scored 12 goals and provided 8 assists in the league, showcasing his enduring ability to both create and finish chances. His overall contribution to Benfica's attack was substantial, with a total of 20 goals and 12 assists across all competitions. Di María's passing ability remained a key asset. In league play, he completed 1,051 passes out of 1,522 attempts, maintaining an impressive 69.1% completion rate. His progressive passing was particularly notable, with 187 progressive passes demonstrating his ability to move the ball forward and create opportunities for his teammates. In the UEFA Champions League, Di María made his 100th appearance in the competition, although Benfica's campaign was disappointing.
They finished third in their group, dropping into the Europa League. Despite this, Di María contributed significantly, including providing a hat-trick of assists in a 3-1 win against Maccabi Haifa. One of the season's highlights came in a crucial match against Sporting CP on November 12, 2023, where Di María played the full 90 minutes in a 2-1 victory. This performance underlined his importance in big games. However, Di María's season wasn't without challenges. He faced some injury issues, being absent for several matches in October 2023.
Despite these setbacks, he consistently delivered when fit, proving to be a key player in Benfica's title challenge. Di María's performances also earned him continued selection for the Argentina national team. He played in World Cup qualifiers and announced that he would retire from international football after the 2024 Copa América, adding extra significance to his appearances for the national team during this season.
As the season progressed, Di María's influence on Benfica's play became increasingly evident. His experience and technical skills were crucial in guiding a team competing for domestic honors and European success. The 2023/24 season served as a reminder of Di María's enduring class and his ability to perform at the highest level, even in the latter stages of his illustrious career.
Start of his international career
Di María's international career began with Argentina's under-20 team in 2007. He was selected for the 2007 South American U20 Championship in Paraguay and then for the 2007 FIFA U20 World Cup in Canada. Argentina went on to win the U20 World Cup, with Di María scoring three goals in the tournament, showcasing his potential on the global stage. In 2008, Di María was called up for Argentina's Olympic football team for the Beijing Olympics.
He played a crucial role in the team's success, scoring the extra-time game-winning goal in the quarter-final against the Netherlands. In the final against Nigeria, Di María scored the only goal of the match with a chip over the goalkeeper, securing Argentina's second consecutive Olympic gold medal. These performances at the youth and Olympic levels set the stage for Di María's transition to the senior national team.
National team
Ángel Di María's senior international career with Argentina began on September 6, 2008, when he made his debut in a match against Paraguay. Since then, he has become one of Argentina's most capped players, with 139 appearances and 31 goals as of 2023. Di María's first major tournament with the senior team was the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. He played in all five of Argentina's matches, starting four of them, as the team reached the quarter-finals. Prior to the tournament, he scored his first international goal in a friendly against Canada on May 24, 2010. In the following years, Di María became a regular fixture in the Argentina squad. He participated in the 2011 Copa América, making three appearances and scoring once in a 3-0 victory over Costa Rica in the group stage. The 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil was a significant tournament for Di María. He played a crucial role in Argentina's run to the final, scoring the winning goal in the round of 16 match against Switzerland.
However, he suffered an injury in the quarter-final against Belgium and missed both the semi-final and the final, which Argentina lost to Germany. Di María was part of the Argentina squad that reached the final of the 2015 Copa América. He scored Argentina's second goal in their 6-1 semi-final victory over Paraguay but was unable to play in the final due to injury, which Argentina lost to Chile on penalties. The 2016 Copa América Centenario saw Di María score Argentina's opening goal in their first match against Chile. However, he suffered another injury in the second group game against Panama, which forced him to miss the rest of the tournament. Argentina once again finished as runners-up, losing to Chile on penalties in the final. Di María was part of Argentina's squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, where he scored a memorable goal in the round of 16 match against France, although Argentina were eliminated in that game. The 2019 Copa América saw Di María make five appearances as Argentina finished third in the tournament. In the 2021 Copa América, he played a pivotal role in Argentina's triumph. Di María scored the winning goal in the final against Brazil, chipping the ball over the goalkeeper to secure Argentina's first major trophy since 1993. Di María's crowning achievement came in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
He started in the final against France and was instrumental in Argentina's victory, winning a penalty for the first goal and scoring the second. Argentina went on to win the match on penalties, with Di María finally achieving World Cup glory with his national team. Throughout his international career, Di María has been known for his speed, dribbling skills, and ability to create chances. He has often been a key player in Argentina's attacking setup, forming effective partnerships with players like Lionel Messi and Sergio Agüero. His performances in major tournaments, particularly his goals in the Copa América and World Cup finals, have cemented his status as one of Argentina's most important players of his generation.
Despite facing injuries at crucial moments in some tournaments, Di María has shown resilience and continued to be a valuable asset to the national team. His contributions have been vital in Argentina's recent successes, helping to end the country's long wait for major international trophies.
His style & roles
Ángel Di María is known for his versatility, technical ability, and creative flair on the pitch. Primarily a right winger, he can also play as an attacking midfielder or on the left side. Di María's style is characterized by his exceptional dribbling skills, quick feet, and ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations. His pace and acceleration make him a constant threat on counterattacks. One of Di María's key strengths is his vision and passing ability. He excels at creating chances for teammates with precise through balls and crosses.
His left foot is particularly dangerous, capable of delivering accurate set-pieces and long-range shots. Di María is also known for his work rate and willingness to track back defensively. This aspect of his game improved significantly under José Mourinho at Real Madrid. While not physically imposing at 1.78m, Di María compensates with his agility and balance. He's adept at using his body to shield the ball and create space. His playing style is often described as elegant and efficient, combining South American flair with European tactical discipline. Despite his technical skills, Di María has faced criticism for inconsistency at times and has struggled with injuries throughout his career.