Ángel Fabián Di María was born on February 14, 1988, in Rosario, Argentina. Growing up in a modest family, Di María’s childhood was marked by financial struggles. His parents, Miguel and Diana, worked at a local coal yard, and from a young age, Ángel and his sisters contributed to the family’s income. Despite these hardships, his passion for football was evident, and he joined the youth academy at Rosario Central at the age of seven.
Career Beginnings
Di María’s professional career began with Rosario Central, where he made his debut in 2005. His talent quickly became apparent, and in 2007, he moved to Europe to join Benfica. At Benfica, Di María’s skills flourished, and he played a crucial role in the team’s success, helping them win the Primeira Liga in 2010.
Move to Real Madrid
In 2010, Di María’s career took a significant leap when he signed with Real Madrid for a fee of €25 million. His tenure at Real Madrid was marked by numerous successes, including winning the La Liga title in 2012 and the UEFA Champions League in 2014. His performance in the Champions League final, where he was named Man of the Match, cemented his status as a top player.
Manchester United and PSG
In 2014, Di María transferred to Manchester United for a British record fee of £59.7 million. Despite a promising start, his time at Manchester United was plagued by injuries and inconsistency, leading to his departure after just one season.
Di María then joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2015, where he rediscovered his form. During his seven-year stint with PSG, he won multiple titles, including five Ligue 1 championships, five Coupe de France titles, and four Coupe de la Ligue titles. He also became the club’s all-time leader in assists and played a key role in reaching the club’s first UEFA Champions League final in 2020.
Later Career and Return to Benfica
In 2022, Di María signed with Juventus, where he continued to demonstrate his skill and experience. However, in 2023, he made a sentimental return to Benfica, the club that had been instrumental in his early European career.
International Career
Di María has had an illustrious international career with Argentina. He made his senior debut in 2008 and has since earned over 140 caps. His international achievements include winning the 2008 Olympic gold medal, the 2021 Copa América, and the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he scored a crucial goal in the final. He has also represented Argentina in multiple Copa América tournaments and World Cups, contributing significantly to the national team’s successes.
Personal Life
Ángel Di María married his long-time girlfriend, Jorgelina Cardoso, in 2011. The couple has two daughters, and Jorgelina is known for being an ardent supporter of her husband, often expressing her views on his career and performances on social media.
Net Worth in 2024
As of 2024, Ángel Di María’s net worth is estimated to be around $18 million. This wealth is the result of his extensive football career, lucrative contracts with top European clubs, endorsements, and sponsorship deals.
Legacy and Impact
Ángel Di María’s career is a testament to his talent, resilience, and dedication. From his humble beginnings in Rosario to becoming a key player for some of the world’s top football clubs, his journey is inspirational. His contributions to both club and country have solidified his place as one of the best footballers of his generation. As he continues to play and eventually transitions to new roles within the sport, Di María’s impact on football will be remembered for years to come.
