Ángel Di María is one of Argentina’s most talented and accomplished footballers, renowned for his lightning speed, dribbling skills, and ability to score crucial goals in important matches. Known as one of the top wingers in the world, Di María has played for some of the biggest football clubs globally, including Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and the Argentina national team. His career has been decorated with numerous accolades, including Champions League titles, domestic league trophies, and a Copa América with Argentina, cementing his place as a legend in the world of football.
In this article, we will explore the life and career of Ángel Di María, including his early years, family background, career achievements, net worth, height, and more.
Early Life and Family Background
Ángel Di María was born on February 14, 1988, in Rosario, a city in the Santa Fe Province of Argentina. Raised in a working-class family, Di María grew up in a humble environment, where his love for football blossomed from a very young age. His parents, Diana and Miguel Di María, were very supportive of his passion for the sport. Di María’s family played a significant role in nurturing his football talent, with his father especially encouraging him to pursue the sport seriously.
Growing up, Ángel spent a lot of time playing football in the streets of Rosario, where he honed his skills. His determination and raw talent caught the eye of local scouts, and by the age of 11, Di María was enrolled at the youth academy of Rosario Central, one of Argentina’s most prominent football clubs. There, he began his journey to becoming one of the finest footballers in the world.
Rise to Fame: Early Career
Di María’s journey to professional football began when he joined Rosario Central’s youth academy. His natural ability to dribble, pace, and create scoring opportunities for his teammates quickly made him stand out. By the time he was 16 years old, he had earned a spot in Rosario Central’s senior team, making his debut for the club in 2005. Although he was initially known for his pace and creativity, it was his work ethic and determination that impressed coaches and teammates alike.
His performances at Rosario Central did not go unnoticed, and soon after, he was scouted by one of Argentina’s top clubs, Benfica in Portugal. In 2007, Di María made the move to Europe, signing with the Portuguese giants. His time at Benfica marked the beginning of his career in Europe and exposed him to a higher level of competition, further developing his skills and establishing him as a top-tier football talent.
Real Madrid and International Success
In 2010, after his successful stint at Benfica, Di María made a high-profile move to Real Madrid, one of the most prestigious clubs in the world. His transfer to Madrid was worth approximately €25 million, making him one of the top signings for the club that season. At Real Madrid, Di María joined a team full of superstars, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Mesut Özil. Under the guidance of legendary coaches like José Mourinho and later Carlo Ancelotti, Di María quickly became an integral part of the team.
During his time at Real Madrid, Di María played a pivotal role in the team’s success. His ability to deliver crucial assists and score vital goals helped Real Madrid secure several major trophies, including the 2014 UEFA Champions League. His performances in the final against Atlético Madrid were instrumental in helping the team lift the coveted European trophy. Di María’s speed, technical ability, and versatility on the left wing were key attributes that made him one of the best in his position.
However, despite his contributions to the club’s successes, Di María’s time at Real Madrid came to an end in 2014 when he was sold to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) for a reported €63 million, making him the most expensive player in the history of French football at that time.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
At PSG, Di María continued to showcase his brilliance, contributing to the team’s dominance in French football. Since joining the club in 2014, Di María has been part of an attacking force that has led PSG to multiple Ligue 1 titles and domestic cup victories. He formed a lethal partnership with players like Neymar and Kylian Mbappé, and his creative playmaking and dribbling abilities have consistently been a key part of PSG’s success in both domestic and international competitions.
One of Di María’s most iconic moments at PSG came in the 2020 UEFA Champions League, where he played a vital role in helping the club win the prestigious European trophy for the first time in its history. His two assists in the final match against Bayern Munich were crucial in PSG’s 1-0 victory, solidifying his place in the club’s history.
Di María’s time at PSG has been marked by numerous individual achievements as well, with the winger consistently being one of the top performers in Ligue 1 and Europe. His consistency and contributions to the team’s success have made him a fan favorite at PSG.
International Career with Argentina
Ángel Di María’s international career with Argentina has also been a highly successful one. He made his debut for the Argentina national team in 2008, and since then, he has been a key figure in the squad. Di María has represented Argentina in multiple FIFA World Cups and Copa América tournaments, earning praise for his performances on the international stage.
One of Di María’s standout moments came during the 2021 Copa América, where he scored the winning goal in the final against Brazil. His decisive goal in the 1-0 victory secured Argentina’s first major international trophy since 1993, cementing Di María’s legacy as a hero for the national team. His role in Argentina’s victory was pivotal, and his goal in the final was widely celebrated across the country.
Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Ángel Di María is married to Jorgelina Cardoso, an Argentine woman who has supported him throughout his career. The couple has two daughters, who are frequently featured in Di María’s social media posts. Di María is known for being a family-oriented person, and he often speaks about the importance of his family in his life.
Off the pitch, Di María is a humble and down-to-earth individual, often involved in charity work and community service. He has used his platform to support various charitable causes, including initiatives focused on helping children and underprivileged communities.
Net Worth and Height
Ángel Di María’s net worth is estimated to be around $30 million to $40 million, largely accumulated through his lucrative football contracts, sponsorships, and endorsements. As one of the highest-paid footballers in the world, Di María’s salary at PSG is reported to be in the range of €10 million annually. In addition to his football earnings, Di María also enjoys endorsement deals with major brands, which contribute significantly to his wealth.
Di María stands at 1.80 meters (5 feet 11 inches) tall, a height that complements his playing style. His agility, combined with his athletic build, allows him to maneuver past defenders and deliver exceptional performances on the field.
Conclusion
Ángel Di María is a football legend whose career has been defined by his exceptional skill, work ethic, and passion for the game. From his humble beginnings in Rosario to becoming a star at Real Madrid, PSG, and the Argentina national team, Di María has consistently proven himself as one of the best wingers in the world. His impact on both club and international football is undeniable, and his legacy as a key player in Argentina’s Copa América triumph in 2021 only adds to his remarkable career. With more years ahead of him in top-tier football, Di María’s journey continues to inspire millions of fans around the world.