Ángel Di María has been one of the most talented and versatile wingers in world football. His incredible dribbling, pinpoint passing, and clutch performances have made him a key player for both Argentina and several top European clubs. From Rosario Central to Real Madrid, PSG, and now Benfica, Di María has left his mark everywhere.
In this article, we’ll explore his early years, playing style, key achievements, and impact on club and country.
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Early Life and Career Beginnings
Ángel Fabián Di María was born on February 14, 1988, in Rosario, Argentina. As a child, he was full of energy and started playing football at a young age. His parents encouraged him to join a local club to channel his enthusiasm into something productive.
Rosario Central and European Move
Di María began his professional career with Rosario Central. His incredible dribbling skills and pace quickly caught the attention of European scouts. In 2007, Portuguese giants Benfica signed him for around €8 million.
In Portugal, he developed into an elite winger. His agility, technical ability, and creativity made him a key player for Benfica. Soon, he was ready for the next step: a move to Real Madrid in 2010.
Real Madrid Glory (2010-2014)
At Real Madrid, Di María reached the highest level. He played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Mesut Özil, forming a fearsome attack.
La Liga and Copa del Rey Titles
In 2011, Di María helped Real Madrid win the Copa del Rey, setting up Ronaldo’s winning goal in the final against Barcelona. A year later, he played a key role in Madrid’s record-breaking La Liga title win under José Mourinho.
Champions League Heroics (2013-14)
His best moment came in 2013-14, when he helped Real Madrid win their historic 10th Champions League title (La Décima). Playing in a more central role, he was the best player in the final against Atlético Madrid. His performance earned him the Man of the Match award.
However, despite his success, Real Madrid surprisingly sold him to Manchester United in 2014.
Manchester United Struggles (2014-15)
Di María arrived at Manchester United for a then British record fee of £59.7 million. Fans expected him to revive the club, but his time in England was disappointing.
Bright Start but Quick Decline
He started well, scoring a stunning chip against Leicester City and assisting several goals. However, injuries, a lack of chemistry with teammates, and struggles under Louis van Gaal’s rigid tactics affected his performances.
By the end of the season, Di María was unhappy. He left for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) after just one year.
Paris Saint-Germain Dominance (2015-2022)
Di María revived his career at PSG. In France, he was a key player, winning multiple Ligue 1 titles, domestic cups, and reaching a Champions League final.
Incredible Numbers and Titles
In seven years at PSG, Di María won:
- 5 Ligue 1 titles
- 5 Coupe de France titles
- 4 Coupe de la Ligue titles
He also became PSG’s all-time assist leader before Neymar surpassed him.
Champions League Final (2019-20)
In 2020, Di María helped PSG reach their first-ever Champions League final. He was outstanding in the semi-final, registering a goal and two assists against RB Leipzig. Although PSG lost to Bayern Munich in the final, Di María was one of their best performers.
After years of dominance in France, he left PSG in 2022 for a new challenge with Juventus.
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Juventus and Benfica Return
Di María joined Juventus in 2022, hoping to bring experience and creativity to the Italian giants. He had some brilliant performances, including a hat-trick in the Europa League, but injuries limited his impact.
After just one season, he decided to return to Benfica in 2023, the club where he made his name in Europe.
At Benfica, he has continued to shine, proving that age is just a number.
Di María for Argentina: A National Hero
While his club career has been impressive, Di María’s greatest achievements have come with Argentina. For years, he was seen as a key player but often unlucky in finals. However, that all changed in the last few years.
Olympic Gold and Early Disappointments
Di María scored the winning goal in the 2008 Olympics final, helping Argentina win gold. However, he faced heartbreak in the 2014 World Cup final, missing the match due to injury. Argentina lost 1-0 to Germany, and many believe they could have won with him on the field.
Redemption: Copa América and World Cup
Di María finally got his moment in 2021. In the Copa América final, he scored the only goal against Brazil, helping Argentina win their first major title in 28 years.
His heroics didn’t stop there. In the 2022 FIFA World Cup final against France, he played a crucial role, scoring a beautiful team goal in the first half. Argentina eventually won on penalties, securing their third World Cup title.
Now, Di María is considered a national legend.
Playing Style and Strengths
Di María is a versatile and complete attacker. He can play as a winger, attacking midfielder, or even a central midfielder when needed. His biggest strengths include:
1. Dribbling and Agility
He is one of the best dribblers of his generation. His quick feet and agility make him hard to defend against.
2. Passing and Creativity
Di María is an elite playmaker. He has an incredible vision for through balls and crosses.
3. Shooting Ability
He can score from long range, especially with his left foot. His curling shots are a nightmare for goalkeepers.
4. Work Rate and Pressing
Unlike many wingers, he works hard defensively. He tracks back, presses aggressively, and wins possession.
5. Big-Game Mentality
Di María has delivered in many finals. He scored the winning goals in the Copa América, World Cup, and Olympics.
Legacy and Future
Di María is still performing at a high level. While his career is nearing its end, he remains an important player for Benfica and Argentina.
His legacy is secure. He will be remembered as:
- One of Argentina’s greatest wingers
- A Champions League winner with Real Madrid
- A Copa América and World Cup hero
- A big-game player who always delivered in finals
In the future, he may return to Rosario Central to finish his career where it all began.
Conclusion
Ángel Di María’s career has been full of highs and lows, but he has always bounced back stronger. From his early days at Rosario Central to Real Madrid, PSG, and the Argentina national team, he has been a world-class talent.
With trophies, unforgettable moments, and a magical left foot, Di María will go down as one of the best Argentine wingers of all time.
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