Di María
Overview
Ángel Fabián Di María (born 14 February 1988) is an Argentine professional footballer who primarily plays as a winger or attacking midfielder. Renowned for his exceptional dribbling, precise crossing, and ability to score in crucial moments, he has established himself as a global star through his performances for the Argentina national team and his success on the European stage.
Main Content
Early Life and Childhood
Di María was born in Rosario, Argentina. He showed talent for football from a young age and, despite growing up in poverty, never lost his passion for the sport. He started playing street football at the age of 4 and began formal training at the local club Torito at age 7. He later joined the youth academy of Rosario Central, marking the start of his serious football career.
Rosario Central (2005–2007)
In 2005, at the age of 17, Di María made his debut for the Rosario Central first team. He attracted attention with his speed and technical dribbling, and in the 2006–07 season, he played 25 matches and scored 6 goals, becoming a key player for the team. His performances drew interest from European clubs, and in the summer of 2007, he transferred to Benfica in Portugal.
Benfica (2007–2010)
At Benfica, Di María continued to develop. In the 2007–08 season, he played 26 league matches and scored 4 goals; in 2008–09, he recorded 4 goals in 24 matches, helping the team finish third in the league. Particularly in the 2009–10 season, he contributed 5 goals and 11 assists in 26 league matches, playing a major role in Benfica's league title win. His performances caught the attention of Europe's biggest clubs, and in the summer of 2010, he moved to Real Madrid.
Real Madrid (2010–2014)
At Real Madrid, Di María formed part of an attacking lineup alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Mesut Özil. In the 2010–11 Copa del Rey final, he scored the winning goal against Barcelona, securing the title for his team. He won La Liga in the 2011–12 season, and in the 2013–14 UEFA Champions League final, he was named Man of the Match after helping Real Madrid secure their tenth European Cup (La Décima) in extra time. However, in the summer of 2014, due to financial issues and tactical changes, he transferred to Manchester United.
Manchester United (2014–2015)
Di María's first season at Manchester United fell short of expectations. Frequent injuries and difficulties adapting limited him to 3 goals in 27 appearances, and the team finished fourth in the league. Consequently, in the summer of 2015, he moved to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
Paris Saint-Germain (2015–2022)
At PSG, Di María revived his career. In the 2015–16 season, he recorded 10 goals and 18 assists in 29 league matches, leading the team to the league title, and continued to perform consistently thereafter. Over seven seasons at PSG, he won 5 league titles, 5 Coupe de France trophies, 4 Coupe de la Ligue titles, and 4 Trophée des Champions, playing a key role in the club's golden era. Notably, in the 2019–20 season, he contributed to the team's runner-up finish in the UEFA Champions League.
Juventus (2022–2023)
In the summer of 2022, after his contract with PSG expired, Di María joined Juventus. However, due to injuries and the team's poor form, he managed only 4 goals in 26 appearances. In the summer of 2023, he terminated his contract and returned to Benfica.
Return to Benfica (2023–Present)
In September 2023, Di María returned to Benfica after 13 years. Since his return, he has continued to display excellent form and remains a key player for the team.
International Career
Di María is a crucial player for the Argentina national team, leading the side alongside Lionel Messi. He won a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Argentina reached the final but lost to Germany, finishing as runners-up. In the 2021 Copa América final, he scored the winning goal against Brazil, securing the title. In the 2022 Finalissima final, he also scored the decisive goal against Italy. In the 2022 FIFA World Cup final, he scored against France, contributing to Argentina's victory. Known for always delivering in major finals, he earned the nickname "Man of the Finals."
Latest Developments
In the 2024–25 season, Di María remains a key player for Benfica. As of November 2024, he has recorded 4 goals and 5 assists in 12 league matches, leading the team's push for a top position. Additionally, in October 2024, he was called up to the Argentina national team for World Cup qualifiers. Although speculation about his retirement continues, he maintains a high level of performance and continues his playing career.
Related Topics
- [[Lionel Messi]]
- [[Argentina national football team]]
- [[Real Madrid]]
- [[Paris Saint-Germain]]
- [[2022 FIFA World Cup]]
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