Argentina’s football fraternity is set to bid farewell to one of its most illustrious stars, Angel Di Maria, as he announces his retirement from the national team after the 2024 Copa America.
Touchaheart Nigeria reports that the 35-year-old Benfica winger shared this poignant decision on Thursday, expressing the depth of his emotions and gratitude for the cherished moments in the iconic blue and white jersey.
A Glorious Journey
Angel Di Maria’s journey with the Albiceleste has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Since his senior debut in 2008, he has amassed 134 caps, leaving an indelible mark on Argentine football.
Di Maria has been a key player in many historic moments, including his crucial goal in the 2021 Copa America final against Brazil, securing Argentina’s victory.
In his own words, Di Maria shared on his Instagram page, “The Copa América will be the last time I wear the Argentina shirt, with all the pain in my soul and feeling a lump in my throat I say goodbye to the most beautiful thing that happened to me in my career, wearing it, sweating in it and feeling it with all my pride.”
Iconic Achievements
The retirement announcement comes on the heels of a remarkable career that saw Di Maria contribute significantly to Argentina’s triumphs.
Notably, he played a vital role in the squad that secured the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, adding to his earlier triumphs, including Olympic gold in 2008 in Beijing.
His legacy includes being a part of the historic 2014 Champions League-winning team with Real Madrid.
Di Maria’s football journey has taken him through illustrious clubs like Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, and currently, a second stint with Benfica in Portugal.
Parting Words and Gratitude
In his parting message, Di Maria extended his gratitude, saying, “Thank you fans, thank you, family, thank you, friends and teammates, we continue to make history.”
The football world echoes this sentiment, recognizing the profound impact Angel Di Maria has had on the sport.
What You Should Know
As Angel Di Maria steps away from international football after the 2024 Copa America, the football community reminisces about the incredible moments he has gifted to the sport.
From scoring match-winning goals to being a vital cog in championship-winning squads, Di Maria’s legacy is etched in the annals of Argentine football history.
As fans and fellow players bid him farewell, they do so with the knowledge that they have witnessed the career of a true football maestro.
