
Di Maria – Career, Clubs, World Cup Win and Retirement
Ángel Di María, the Argentine winger known for his trophy-laden career across Europe and his decisive goals in finals, currently plays for Rosario Central in 2026. At 38, he has stepped away from international football after winning the 2024 Copa América, making him a notable absence from Argentina’s World Cup squad. His journey through clubs such as Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Juventus has cemented his reputation as one of the most decorated South American players of his generation.
Born on 14 February 1988 in Rosario, Argentina, Di María began his professional career at Rosario Central before moving to Benfica in 2007. A left-footed right winger with exceptional pace and crossing ability, he later became a British-record signing for Manchester United in 2014, though his stint there lasted only one season. His international retirement after the 2024 Copa América final means his focus is now entirely on club football with the team he supported as a boy.
Which club does Di María currently play for?
- Full name: Ángel Fabián Di María Hernández
- Current club: CA Rosario Central (as of the 2025/26 season)
- Position: Right winger / attacking midfielder
- Major achievement: 2022 FIFA World Cup winner with Argentina
Key insights about Di María’s career
- Played a decisive role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory, scoring in the final
- Transferred to Manchester United in 2014 for a then-British record fee of £59.7 million
- Won the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid in 2014 (La Décima)
- Known for his pace, dribbling, and accurate crossing from the right flank
- Returned to Rosario Central in 2025 after a second stint at Benfica
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of birth | 14 February 1988 |
| Place of birth | Rosario, Argentina |
| Height | 1.78 m |
| Weight | 73 kg |
| Preferred foot | Left |
| Market value (2026) | €1.80 million |
| International caps | Over 140 for Argentina |
| Major trophies | World Cup, Copa América, Champions League, La Liga, Ligue 1, Serie A |
Did Di María win the World Cup?
Yes, Di María was a key member of the Argentina squad that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. He scored in the final against France, a goal that helped secure a 3–3 draw and eventual penalty shootout victory. That tournament capped a remarkable international run that also included Olympic gold in 2008 and Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024.
His role in Argentina’s biggest finals
Di María has a history of scoring in crucial matches. He netted the only goal in the 2021 Copa América final against Brazil and also found the net in the 2022 Finalissima against Italy. His ability to perform on the biggest stage has earned him the nickname “the final’s man” among Argentine fans. After the 2024 Copa América, he announced his retirement from international duty.
According to multiple sources, Di María’s goal in the 2022 World Cup final was one of the most important of his career. He also scored in the 2008 Olympic gold medal match, making him the only Argentine to score in an Olympic final, a Copa América final, a Finalissima, and a World Cup final.
What is Di María’s career history at Real Madrid and Juventus?
Real Madrid (2010–2014)
Di María joined Real Madrid from Benfica in 2010 for a fee reported at around €33 million. During his four seasons, he helped the club win the 2011–12 La Liga title and the 2014 UEFA Champions League, famously known as La Décima. His assist to Gareth Bale in the Copa del Rey final and his man-of-the-match performance in the Champions League final are highlights of his time in Madrid. The Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid Lineups from that era often featured Di María as a key attacking threat.
Juventus (2022–2023)
After leaving Paris Saint-Germain, Di María spent one season at Juventus. He scored eight goals in 40 appearances across all competitions, showing flashes of his creativity despite an injury-hit campaign. The move to Turin did not yield a Serie A title, but he did add a Coppa Italia runners-up medal to his collection. Matches such as Burnley FC vs Manchester United FC Stats reflect how his transfer to Manchester United earlier in his career had reshaped expectations around his form.
Is Di María retiring?
Di María retired from international football after winning the 2024 Copa América. His final appearance for Argentina came in that tournament’s final. As of 2026, he has not announced a retirement from club football. He currently plays for Rosario Central, and reports indicate he may continue for another season before considering his next steps. Some social media posts have speculated about a possible return to the national team for the 2026 World Cup, but those claims are not supported by official announcements or roster reports.
While Di María’s international retirement is confirmed, his club future remains open. He has not publicly stated a date for hanging up his boots. All reliable sources, including his current club’s statements, indicate he is focused on playing for Rosario Central for the 2026 season.
How did Di María’s career progress through his clubs?
- : Rosario Central (youth and senior debut)
- : Benfica
- : Real Madrid
- : Manchester United
- : Paris Saint-Germain
- : Juventus
- : Benfica (second stint)
- : Rosario Central (return)
What is known and unknown about Di María’s future?
Established information
- He won the 2022 World Cup with Argentina
- He played for Real Madrid, Manchester United, PSG, Juventus, Benfica, and Rosario Central
- He is married to Jorgelina Cardoso
- He retired from international football after the 2024 Copa América
Information that remains unclear
- Plans for full retirement from club football – not officially stated as of early 2026
- Availability of official Di María jerseys – varies by retailer and club
- Current market value is dynamic and subject to change
What makes Di María a unique figure in football?
Di María’s legacy is built on his reliability in high-stakes matches. Often operating in the shadow of Lionel Messi, he nevertheless delivered decisive performances in finals for both club and country. His left-footed wing play, marked by sharp dribbling and pinpoint crossing, set him apart in an era dominated by inverted wingers. The move to Manchester United in 2014 is widely considered a misstep, but his adaptability across five top European leagues – Spain, England, France, Italy, and Portugal – underscores his professional resilience. Returning to Rosario Central in 2025 allowed him to finish his career where it started, a rare full-circle narrative in modern football.
Where can you find reliable information about Di María?
The most authoritative sources for Di María’s career data include his Wikipedia page, which provides a detailed biography and honours list. The official Real Madrid legend profile covers his time at the club with verified statistics. For market values and transfer history, Transfermarkt is a widely used resource. The FIFA World Cup winner 2022 page confirms his international achievement, and FBref offers advanced stats such as pass completion and expected goals.
What’s next for Di María?
As of 2026, Di María is playing for Rosario Central. Retirement remains an open question – most likely after the 2026 season or after a farewell tour. Fans will watch for possible coaching roles or ambassadorial work with Argentina. For those following his legacy, a look at Burnley FC vs Manchester United FC Stats offers one way to revisit his time in English football.
Frequently asked questions about Ángel Di María
Where can I buy an official Di María jersey?
Official jerseys are sold through club stores (Rosario Central, Argentina national team) and major retailers like Nike, Adidas, or Fanatics. Availability depends on the current club kit.
Did Di María play for Manchester United?
Yes, he played for Manchester United for the 2014–15 season after a then-British record £59.7 million transfer. He scored 3 goals in 27 Premier League appearances.
How many goals did Di María score for Juventus?
He scored 8 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions for Juventus during the 2022–23 season.
Did Di María win the Copa América?
Yes, he won the Copa América twice – in 2021 and 2024 – scoring in the 2021 final against Brazil.
What is Di María’s full name?
Ángel Fabián Di María Hernández.