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Key Points

Angel Di Maria is set to return to his boyhood club, Rosario Central, marking a sentimental homecoming after a distinguished career in Europe. The move follows the expiry of his contract with Benfica, allowing him to rejoin on a free transfer. Despite the escalating violence in the Rosario area, Di Maria is motivated by his long-standing wish to conclude his career at the club where it all began. With a track record of 30 trophies and over 700 European matches, his experience and skill are poised to inspire the team and excite fans.

Key Points: Angel Di Maria Returns to Rosario Central After Benfica Stint

  • Angel Di Maria agrees to join Rosario Central after Benfica contract ends
  • The right winger faces regional violence concerns but follows his heart to Argentina
  • Di Maria's illustrious career includes 30 trophies and World Cup triumph
  • His return marks a significant moment for Rosario Central's proud history
2 min read

Angel Di Maria returns to Boyhood club Rosario Central

Angel Di Maria rejoins Rosario Central on a free transfer after leaving Benfica.

"Our history together has more pages to write. Welcome home. - Rosario Central Statement"

Rosario, May 30

Argentina's FIFA World Cup winner Angel Di Maria has reached an agreement to return to his boyhood team Rosario Central, the club announced. The 37-year-old will rejoin the Argentine Primera Division side on a free transfer after his contract with Portuguese outfit Benfica expires in July.

"Our history together has more pages to write. Welcome home," read a statement issued by the club on social media.

The right winger previously expressed a desire to return to his original club Rosario Central but increasing drug-related violence in the region and a number of threats against him and his family have halted his plans.

Di Maria began his professional career with Rosario Central in 2005 before signing with Benfica two years later. He had subsequent spells at Real Madrid, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus before returning to Benfica in 2023. He went on to play more than 700 games in Europe for Benfica, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Paris St-Germain and Juventus.

The former Real Madrid, Manchester United and Juventus star retired after Copa America final last year, ending his Argentina career with 145 caps, having won the 2022 World Cup and two Copa America titles.

He is also third in the all-time list of appearances for the national team, only behind Lionel Messi (186) and Javier Mascherano (147).

Di Maria has won 30 trophies in Europe - including league titles in three countries and the 2013-14 Champions League with Real - as well as the World Cup and two Copa America trophies with Argentina.

He will start his new spell with Rosario Central following the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
What a beautiful homecoming story! 🇦🇷 As an Indian football fan, I've always admired Di Maria's work ethic. His journey from Rosario to European giants and back is inspirational. Hope he can inspire young talents in Argentina like how our Sunil Chhetri motivates Indian kids!
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Priya M.
The drug violence situation in Rosario sounds concerning 😟. Hope Di Maria and his family stay safe. Footballers shouldn't have to worry about security when returning to their roots. This reminds me of how some of our Indian players face challenges in certain regions too.
A
Arjun S.
That 2014 UCL final goal against Atletico! 🔥 Di Maria was unstoppable that day. While we don't get much Argentine league coverage here, I might just find streams to watch his Rosario matches. His experience will be gold for young players there.
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Sneha R.
Complete legend! 30 trophies is no joke. But I wonder - at 37, how much can he contribute on field? Maybe his presence alone will boost ticket sales and youth development. Indian clubs should learn from such homecoming stories to attract NRIs back to our football.
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Vikram J.
Respect for choosing his boyhood club over bigger paychecks! In India, we rarely see stars returning to I-League clubs after ISL stints. Di Maria setting a great example of giving back to where it all began. Hope our Indian Super League stars take note!
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Neha P.
While I admire his career, the timing feels odd. Why retire internationally after Copa America only to play club football? 🤔 That World Cup final goal against France was magical though! Maybe he just wants to enjoy football without pressure now.

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