From Rosario to Global Stardom – The Inspiring Story of Ángel Di María
Ángel Fabián Di María is one of the most iconic figures in modern football. Known for his electrifying speed, agility, and mesmerizing skills, he has cemented his place as one of the greatest Argentine footballers of all time. Born on February 14, 1988, in Rosario, Argentina, Di María's journey from humble beginnings to global fame is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and extraordinary talent.
Currently playing for Primeira Liga club Benfica, Di María's career has seen him represent some of Europe's biggest clubs, including Real Madrid, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Juventus. His legacy is adorned with numerous accolades, including league titles, domestic trophies, and the prestigious UEFA Champions League. Beyond his club success, Di María's contributions to the Argentine national team have solidified his status as a national treasure.
Early Life and Rise to Stardom
Di María's early years were marked by determination and hard work. Growing up in the working-class neighborhood of Perdriel, he was one of three siblings. A doctor recommended football as a way to channel his hyperactivity, setting him on a path to greatness. Despite financial hardships, Di María's ambition never wavered. He helped his parents in their coal yard and shared their sacrifices, determined to change his family's fate.
After making his professional debut at Rosario Central, his talent quickly caught the attention of European scouts. At just 19, he made a transformative move to Benfica, where his career began to flourish.
Club Career
Rosario Central (2005–2007)
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Debut: December 14, 2005, in a 2–2 draw against Independiente.
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First Goal: November 24, 2006, in a 4–2 victory against Quilmes.
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Total Appearances/Goals: 39 appearances, 6 goals.
Benfica (2007–2010)
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Breakthrough Season: 2009–10 under manager Jorge Jesus.
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Key Achievements:
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Helped Benfica win their first Primeira Liga title in five years.
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Scored his first hat-trick on February 27, 2010, in a 4–0 win against Leixões.
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Named Player of the Month in April 2010.
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Finished the season as the league’s top assist provider with 11 assists.
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Total Appearances/Goals: 125 appearances, 15 goals.
Real Madrid (2010–2014)
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Transfer Fee: €25 million.
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Key Achievements:
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Won La Liga in the 2011–12 season.
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Played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s 2014 Copa del Rey and Champions League triumphs.
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Named Man of the Match in the 2014 Champions League final.
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Total Appearances/Goals: 190 appearances, 36 goals.
Manchester United (2014–2015)
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Transfer Fee: £59.7 million.
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Key Moments:
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Scored a stunning chip against Leicester City.
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Ended the season with 4 league goals.
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Total Appearances/Goals: 32 appearances, 4 goals.
Paris Saint-Germain (2015–2022)
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Transfer Fee: £44 million.
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Key Achievements:
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Won five Ligue 1 titles.
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Set a Ligue 1 record with 18 assists in his first season.
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Helped PSG reach their first-ever Champions League final in 2020.
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Total Appearances/Goals: 295 appearances, 92 goals.
Juventus (2022–2023)
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Key Contributions:
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Scored crucial goals in Serie A and the Champions League.
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Total Appearances/Goals: 40 appearances, 8 goals.
Benfica (2023–Present)
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Return to Benfica:
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Continued to deliver with goals and assists.
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Total Appearances/Goals (as of 2025): 78 appearances, 31 goals.
International Career
Early Years (2007–2010)
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FIFA U-20 World Cup: Won in 2007, scoring three goals.
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Senior Debut: September 6, 2008, in a World Cup qualifier against Paraguay.
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First Senior Goal: Scored in a friendly against Canada prior to the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Major Tournaments:
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2014 FIFA World Cup: Scored the winning goal in the Round of 16 against Switzerland.
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2021 Copa América: Scored the winning goal in the final against Brazil.
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2022 FIFA World Cup: Scored in the final, helping Argentina win their third title.
Total Appearances/Goals (as of 2025): 145 appearances, 31 goals.
Playing Style
Di María is renowned for his dynamic and versatile playing style. Predominantly a left-footed player, he excels as a winger or in a central attacking role. His exceptional dribbling, agility, and creativity make him a constant threat. Di María is also known for his defensive work rate, having improved significantly under José Mourinho at Real Madrid.
Personal Life
Di María is married to Jorgelina Cardoso, and they have two daughters, Mia and Pia. His family has faced security threats, including a robbery in 2021. Di María holds an Italian passport and is a devout Roman Catholic. His name surfaced in the Pandora Papers investigation, revealing his involvement in offshore financial dealings.
Career Statistics (as of January 2025)
Club Career
| Club | League Appearances | League Goals | National Cup (Apps/Goals) | League Cup (Apps/Goals) | Continental (Apps/Goals) | Other (Apps/Goals) | Total Apps/Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rosario Central | 35 | 6 | 0/0 | — | 4/0 | 0/0 | 39/6 |
| Benfica | 76 | 7 | 7/0 | 12/2 | 30/6 | 0/0 | 125/15 |
| Real Madrid | 124 | 22 | 22/5 | — | 39/8 | 5/1 | 190/36 |
| Manchester United | 27 | 3 | 5/1 | 0/0 | — | — | 32/4 |
| Paris Saint-Germain | 197 | 56 | 24/11 | 16/8 | 54/14 | 4/3 | 295/92 |
| Juventus | 26 | 4 | 4/0 | — | 10/4 | — | 40/8 |
| Benfica (Return) | 45 | 16 | 7/3 | 6/5 | 19/6 | 1/1 | 78/31 |
| Total | 530 | 114 | 69/20 | 34/15 | 156/38 | 10/5 | 799/192 |
International Career
| Year | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 1 | 0 |
| 2009 | 5 | 0 |
| 2010 | 11 | 2 |
| 2011 | 10 | 3 |
| 2012 | 8 | 3 |
| 2013 | 9 | 1 |
| 2014 | 13 | 2 |
| 2015 | 13 | 4 |
| 2016 | 12 | 3 |
| 2017 | 10 | 1 |
| 2018 | 5 | 1 |
| 2019 | 5 | 0 |
| 2020 | 2 | 0 |
| 2021 | 14 | 2 |
| 2022 | 11 | 6 |
| 2023 | 7 | 1 |
| 2024 | 9 | 2 |
| Total | 145 | 31 |
Legacy and Future
Ángel Di María has solidified his legacy as one of football's most skilled and versatile wingers. His contributions to Argentina's national team, including decisive goals in the 2021 Copa América and 2022 FIFA World Cup finals, have cemented his place among the greats. As he continues his career, his experience and leadership remain invaluable. Whether on the pitch or in a future mentoring role, Di María's legacy as a football icon is secure.
Conclusion
Ángel Di María's journey from a coal yard in Rosario to the grandest football stages is a story of resilience, skill, and unyielding commitment. His remarkable career continues to inspire fans worldwide, and his legacy will endure for generations to come.
