Juventus Bids Farewell to Angel Di Maria
Turin (AFP) – Italian club Juventus has expressed its gratitude to veteran Argentine winger Angel Di Maria for his season with the team, confirming his departure. Press reports have also indicated the possibility of his return to his former team, Benfica, where he played between 2007 and 2010.
Di Maria announced his departure from Juventus on June 6th. He joined the club last summer on a free deal from Paris Saint-Germain after spending seven years in the French capital. During his time with Juventus, Di Maria played 40 matches and scored 8 goals, but unfortunately, the team did not win any titles.
In a video titled “Thank you, Di Maria,” Juventus wrote, “After joining Continassa, the training headquarters, in July 2022, the 35-year-old signed a one-season contract following a successful period with Paris Saint-Germain in France. He added Serie A to the list of elite leagues he has played in. Angel participated in 40 matches in the 2022-2023 season, scoring eight goals, four in the league and four in the Europa League. Throughout his career, he lifted the 2022 World Cup with Argentina.”
Di Maria took to his Instagram account to express his thoughts, saying, “I leave with a clear mind because I did everything to help the club continue to win titles, but that was not possible.” The winger, who has 132 caps, added, “I leave with a bitter aftertaste for not having made it, but with joy because I have friends from the wonderful dressing room I was a part of.”
During his career, Di Maria has achieved significant success. He won the Champions League title with Real Madrid in 2014 and the La Liga title in 2012. With Paris Saint-Germain, he won the league title five times. He also played a crucial role in the Qatar World Cup final, assisting captain Lionel Messi in the attack. Despite not being expected to start in the final against France, Di Maria scored a penalty kick in the 23rd minute and added a second goal with a ground kick in the 36th minute.
“I’ve always said this: I’d rather give an assist than score a goal,” Di Maria said in an interview with French sports newspaper L’Equipe in 2020. “That’s what makes me happy.” He has also made significant contributions to the national team, scoring the only goal in the Beijing Olympics final against Nigeria in 2008 and scoring a left-footed volley against Brazil in the Copa America final in 2021, securing Argentina’s first title in the competition since 1993.
Throughout his club career, Di Maria has showcased his skills with his charming left foot, distinctive celebration of a heart on his fingers, and played for several top clubs. He joined Benfica in 2007 before moving to Real Madrid, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and finally Juventus.
While Di Maria bids farewell to Juventus, rumors suggest a possible return to Benfica, where he previously left a lasting impact. Fans eagerly await the next chapter in the talented winger’s career.
