Angel Di Maria, the celebrated Argentine winger, recently made a significant announcement about his international career. On Thursday, he declared his intention to retire from international football following the 2024 Copa America, which will be hosted in the United States. Since making his debut in 2008, Di Maria has been a cornerstone of the Argentine national team, making a remarkable 136 appearances, participating in four World Cups, and playing a pivotal role in Argentina's 2022 World Cup final triumph over France.
"I can't express in words how much the ovation (against Brazil) has filled my soul," Di María wrote on his social media accounts.
"I enjoy every second of that affection and that of my teammates. They, my friends, without them this story would not have the same meaning. The affection of each and every one of them made me who I am today.
Di Maria's recent performance was a key highlight in Argentina's 1-0 victory against their long-standing rivals Brazil in a Conmebol World Cup qualifier. This match marked Brazil's first home defeat in these qualifiers. Di Maria made a memorable entrance in the 78th minute, replacing none other than captain Lionel Messi. This victory echoed Di Maria's historic achievement at the Maracaná in 2021, where he scored the decisive goal against Brazil in the Copa America final, cementing his legacy in Argentine football history.
"Unfortunately, we can't let the events that took place in the stadium happen, nobody deserves that treatment, nor the beatings. Families and children were scared in the middle of a stadium where the only thing that should have happened was to watch and enjoy a match. Hopefully, this kind of thing won't happen again. We as players will always defend our fans," Di Maria continued.
"The Copa América will be the last time I wear the Argentina shirt, with all the pain in my soul and feeling a lump in my throat I say goodbye to the most beautiful thing that happened to me in my career, wearing it, sweating in it and feeling it with all my pride.
"Thank you fans, thank you, family, thank you, friends and teammates, we continue to make history," he added.
Under the guidance of coach Lionel Scaloni, Di Maria has been an integral part of Argentina's recent successes, including their 2022 World Cup victory in Qatar. Beyond his national team exploits, Di Maria has had a storied club career. He returned to Benfica, the Portuguese champions, in 2022, rejoining the team where he previously shone between 2007 and 2010. His impressive career also includes stints with football giants such as Real Madrid, PSG, Juventus, and Manchester United, showcasing his versatility and skill across Europe's top leagues. Di Maria's announcement sets the stage for his final chapters in international football, with fans and teammates alike looking forward to his contributions in the upcoming 2024 Copa America.
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