In a stirring twist of fate and defiance, Ángel Di María is returning to Rosario Central—the Argentine club where his professional journey began. Almost a year after horrific threats forced him to abandon the same move, the 37-year-old winger has now committed to fulfilling his long-cherished desire to represent his boyhood side once more. Rosario Central confirmed the emotional return on Thursday, marking a new chapter in the World Cup winner’s storied career.
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Back Where It All Began: Di María’s Early Roots
Rosario Central holds a special place in Di María’s heart. It was in 2005 that a teenage Di María burst onto the scene with the Rosario-based outfit, catching the attention of scouts across the Atlantic.
His breakout performances led to a move to Benfica in 2007, kick-starting a European career that spanned over 700 appearances and 30 club trophies. The club’s heartfelt announcement on social media captured the significance of his return: “Our history together has more pages to write. Welcome home.”
From Europe’s Biggest Stages to Rosario’s Embrace
Following his departure from Rosario, Di María’s rise was meteoric. After excelling in Portugal, he joined Real Madrid, where he clinched the UEFA Champions League title in the 2013-14 season. Stints at Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Juventus followed, before he returned to Benfica for a second spell in 2023.
Over nearly two decades in Europe, Di María not only collected silverware in Spain, France, and Portugal but also left an indelible mark with his versatility, pace, and match-winning brilliance. Yet, the pull of home never faded.
A Dream Deferred: The Threats That Delayed His Return
In the summer of 2023, Di María was poised to rejoin Rosario Central as a free agent. However, his plans were derailed by a surge in drug-related violence in his hometown. The threats were deeply personal, targeting his family with disturbing intimidation tactics.
In an emotional recounting, Di María revealed: “There was a threat at my sister’s business, a box with a pig’s head and a bullet in the forehead, and a note that said that if I returned to [Rosario] Central, the next head was that of my daughter Pia. Those months were horrible. We could only sit there and cry each night over not being able to carry out that dream return.”
The sheer terror of the situation forced him to prioritize his family’s safety over his sentimental desire, leaving the dream of returning home painfully unfulfilled—until now.
Legacy of Glory: A Decorated Career with Argentina and Abroad
Few footballers can boast a résumé as glittering as Di María’s. He lifted league titles across three countries and triumphed on the grandest stage with Argentina. His international accolades include the 2022 FIFA World Cup, two Copa América titles, and an Olympic gold medal from 2008.
His contributions to La Albiceleste were often decisive—most memorably scoring in the 2021 Copa América final against Brazil and netting again in the 2022 World Cup final.
Now, with his international career concluded and his European chapter drawing to a close, Di María’s focus returns to the club that shaped his beginnings.
Di María’s current club, Benfica, will bid farewell to the veteran winger after the Club World Cup campaign in the United States next month. The Portuguese giants are grouped with Bayern Munich, Boca Juniors, and Auckland City in Group C of the tournament.
Despite being in the twilight of his career, Di María’s passion for the game remains undiminished. His decision to return to Rosario Central isn’t just a footballing move—it’s a personal mission, a circle completed, and a statement of courage in the face of adversity.
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FAQs
Why is Ángel Di María returning to Rosario Central?
Ángel Di María is returning to Rosario Central to fulfill his dream of rejoining his boyhood club, despite previously backing out due to threats against his family.
What stopped Di María from joining Rosario Central earlier?
In 2023, Di María abandoned plans to join Rosario Central after receiving violent threats targeting his daughter and sister.
When will Ángel Di María officially join Rosario Central?
Di María will officially join Rosario Central after Benfica’s Club World Cup campaign in the United States next month.
How many trophies has Di María won in his career?
Di María has won 30 club titles in Europe and six international honors with Argentina, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Which clubs has Ángel Di María played for in Europe?
Ángel Di María has played for Benfica, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Juventus in Europe.
