Argentina midfielder Angel Di Maria‘s retirement from international football after an emotional victory at the 2024 Copa America has left fans reeling. Following a remarkable 16-year career, Di Maria will no longer represent his nation on the biggest stage. Even though the farewell has left many fans teary-eyed, here is what he had to say to his supporters.
Did Angel Di Maria retire after the Copa America final?
Yes, Angel Di Maria has retired from his long-standing international football career.
The 2024 Copa America final was a heart-thumping experience for many football enthusiasts. According to Reuters, the match was delayed by over an hour due to countless ticketless fans rushing into the stadium and breaking security barriers. After a monumental win over Columbia to grab the Copa America title, Di Maria’s retirement tugged at the heartstrings of many fans.
In his post-match speech, Di Maria addressed his fans, saying, “The truth is, this was written, it was this way.” He continued, “I dreamed it. I dreamed that I would arrive at the final, win it, and retire in this way. I have so many beautiful feelings, and I am eternally grateful to this generation, and today, I am leaving in this way with a title.”
Angel Di Maria’s international outings have been top-notch, and he participated in the 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022 World Cups. In 2022, he eventually lifted the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in Qatar. Di Maria has also been an Olympic hero for Argentina, bagging a gold in the 2008 edition. The 36-year-old has played about 144 matches and scored 31 goals in his career.
At the club level, the Argentine has played for European giants Benfica, Real Madrid, Manchester United, and P.S.G.. He returned to Benfica in 2023.
