Angel Di Maria has confirmed that he will retire from the Argentina national team after the Copa America 2024 on his official social media pages. The player recently announced the decision on a radio program, and has now confirmed the decision for good.
He scored the decisive goal for Argentina to win their first ever trophy with Lionel Messi and under Scaloni, with his effort against Brazil in the Copa America finals helping them lift the trophy. He then went on to score in the Finalissima, guiding Argentina to yet another trophy. His influence was also vital during the 2022 World Cup, scoring the opening goal in the finals to help the Albiceleste to the title.
Angel Di Maria announces Argentina retirement plan in 2024
“I can’t express in words how much the ovation [against Brazil] has filled my soul,” Di María wrote on his social media accounts. “I enjoy every second of that affection and that of my teammates. They, my friends, without them this story would not have the same meaning. The affection of each and every one of them made me who I am today.”
“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.”
In spite of scoring only 29 goals in 136 games for the national team, he has turned up on all the big occasions for the national team. And even at 35, he continues to impress for Benfica with five goals and two assists in nine league appearances.
Angel Di Maria will surely go down as one of the most underrated wingers of his generation, in spite of being successful both at the club and country level. And the 2024 Copa America will provide the best chance for him to retire on a high note after the World Cup victory.
