Angel Di Maria Extends Benfica Contract for Another Year
After all that had been said about a possible transfer back home to play for Rosario Central, Argentine veteran winger Angel Di Maria has agreed to add another year to his current deal with Portuguese club Benfica. This came in especially after the 36-year-old had earlier been mulling over the decision to return home and feature for Rosario Central but opted to remain in Lisbon following personal threats received by him and his family in the process of negotiating the transfer.
A Change of Heart
Wednesday then brought the surprise news that Di Maria would stay with Benfica, and it was a huge call in his career. The veteran had been trying really hard to push through a move back to Rosario Central – where he always wanted to end his playing career. Following abuse and threats which put his family in a position of unsafety, he began to look again at his options.
“I am pleased to remain at Benfica for another year to continue winning titles,” Di Maria declared in an official statement on Benfica’s website. In this commitment, he is making to the team; this proves he still has a hunger to feel competitive and be relevant when called upon.
A Stellar Career
Di Maria had a very storied career, where he turned out for some of the biggest football clubs worldwide, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Juventus, and Paris Saint-Germain. He has won several titles in his sojourn around Europe, among other accolades that repay the talent as one of the finest wingers his generation had ever produced.
Notably, Di Maria was very critical to international success for Argentina, this reflected in his help to the national team in securing both FIFA World Cup and Copa America. His experiences and skills brought him valuable status to Benfica when he joined the team in 2023 part of which was essential in taking them to finish second best in the Portuguese league.
Emotional Connection to Rosario Central
It was only in July that Di Maria confessed to having an ’emotional attachment’ with Rosario Central, stating, “My dream has always been to go back and play for Central and retire in their jersey.” A reason that explains his strong feelings for the club where his professional journey began. But the recent threats made him think of his family’s safety more than his dreams.
The Future Remains in Balance
Now, following the extension, Benfica fans will be able to see another year of his skill and leadership on the pitch. His decision to stay demonstrates the commitment of the club in building a great team to compete for more titles next season.
Through all this process, with Di Maria still donning the Benfica jersey, he is going to turn out to be an inspiration for the myriad fans and young upcoming players facing several challenges that may come his way and showing the world that with sheer will and perseverance, it is possible to get going.
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