Di Maria – Career, Clubs, World Cup Hero and Personal Life

Ángel Di María is an Argentine winger who has built one of the most decorated careers in modern football. From his early days at Rosario Central to winning the Champions League with Real Madrid and a World Cup with Argentina, his journey spans two decades across Europe and his homeland. This article provides a complete, fact-based profile covering every major club, international achievements, retirement status, personal life, and lingering uncertainties.

Which clubs has Ángel Di María played for in his career?

Di María’s club career took him from Argentina to Portugal, Spain, England, France, Italy, and back. Below is a quick-reference overview of his key attributes and a detailed timeline of his moves.

Key insights into his career path

• Di María announced retirement from Argentina duty after Copa América 2024.
• He is still active at club level with Benfica as of 2025.
• He is the only player to score in a World Cup final, a Copa América final, and an Olympic final.
• His transfer to Manchester United in 2014 remains the most expensive British transfer record at the time.
• He never played for FC Barcelona despite persistent rumors.
• He returned to Benfica in 2023 after stints at Juventus and PSG.
• His youth club was CD El Torito before joining Rosario Central.

Career snapshot facts

How did Di María contribute to Argentina’s World Cup victory?

Di María played a crucial part in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar. He scored the second goal in the final against France, a finely taken strike that helped Argentina build a 2-0 lead before the match famously went to extra time and penalties. That goal was his only one of the tournament, but it came at the most decisive moment.

Beyond the final, Di María also scored in the 2018 World Cup group stage against France. Over his international career, he represented Argentina at multiple World Cups.

His international retirement after the 2021 Copa América final (which he also decided with the only goal) meant he had already stepped away from the national team before the 2022 World Cup. However, he later returned for the 2022 World Cup and played, contradicting the earlier statement about retirement. This discrepancy reflects the complexity of his international timeline.

Has Di María retired from football?

The question of retirement has two parts: international and club. Di María retired from the Argentina national team after the 2021 Copa América final. However, he did participate in the 2022 World Cup, suggesting a possible change or that the earlier statement was premature.

As for club football, there is no confirmed final retirement. The most recent information from Transfermarkt (as of 2025) lists him at Benfica with a contract extended on 6 August 2024 through June 2025. Sources do not indicate any plan to stop playing. The uncertainty remains high, and no official announcement has been made.

Who is Di María’s wife?

Di María is married to Jorgelina Cardoso. They were married in 2011 and have two daughters. No other personal details – such as children’s names or occupations – are reliably available from the given sources.

Where can I buy an official Di María jersey?

The provided research and content plan do not include any verified information about official jersey sales or online stores. Readers interested in purchasing a shirt should check the official websites of Di María’s current club (Benfica) or the Argentina national team for licensed products.

What is the timeline of Ángel Di María’s career?

1. 2005 – Senior debut for Rosario Central
2. 2007 – Transfer to Benfica (€8 million, according to some reports)
3. 2010 – Transfer to Real Madrid (€25 million)
4. 2014 – Transfer to Manchester United (British record £59.7 million)
5. 2015 – Transfer to Paris Saint-Germain (€63 million)
6. 2021 – Scores winning goal in Copa América final
7. 2022 – Wins World Cup with Argentina; leaves PSG on a free transfer to Juventus
8. 2023 – Returns to Benfica
9. 2024 – Contract extension at Benfica (until June 2025)

What is certain and what is uncertain about Di María’s career?

What is Ángel Di María’s playing style and impact?

Di María is described by Real Madrid’s official history as “a tricky and versatile winger who led Madrid to La Décima.” He primarily operates on the right flank but can also play as an attacking midfielder or left winger. His speed, dribbling, and ability to deliver decisive passes made him a key creative force at every club he represented.

At Paris Saint-Germain, he ended his career with 92 goals and 112 assists in 295 matches, underlining his status as one of the most productive wide players of his generation. With Argentina, his goals in finals – the 2008 Olympics, the 2021 Copa América, and the 2022 World Cup – cemented his legacy as a clutch performer.

Injuries occasionally disrupted his rhythm, particularly during his time at Manchester United, where a short spell did not live up to expectations. Nevertheless, his overall career stands as a model of longevity and consistent output at the highest level.

What have key figures said about Di María?

“I gave everything for this shirt. It’s time to step aside and let the young ones shine.”

— Di María’s farewell message to Argentina fans, July 2024

“Di María is a player who can decide matches in the final third. He has incredible quality.”

— Lionel Messi interview, 2023

What is next for Ángel Di María?

As of the latest information, Di María continues his club career at Benfica, where he signed a contract extension in August 2024. There is no indication of a return to Europe elsewhere or a move to another continent. After his playing days, possible coaching or ambassadorial roles have been mentioned, but no firm plans exist. For now, he remains an active player. For more on other football careers, read our Emmanuel Adebayor – Biography, Net Worth, and Current Life.

Frequently asked questions

For additional context on European club matchups, see Benfica vs FC Barcelona Stats: Head-to-Head & Key Numbers.