Angel Di Maria in tears as visibly emotional star hears Lionel Messi and Argentina wish him happy retirement
09/06/2024 03:43 AM
Lionel Messi led an emotional send off for Angel Di Maria following his retirement from Argentina duty.
Di Maria called time on his international career after the nation’s Copa America triumph in July.
The 36-year-old, who won 145 caps, was honoured at River Plate Stadium following Argentina’s 3-0 win over Chile in a World Cup qualifier on Thursday night.
Accompanied by his family, Di Maria broke down in tears as Albiceleste icon Messi paid a touching tribute to him on the big screen.
Messi said: “I hope you enjoy this evening a lot with your family and loved ones.
“We’ve said everything we needed to say.
“We shared so much, and who would have thought it would end this way? We’ll miss you a lot. See you soon.”
Eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi is one year older than Di Maria at 37, but is yet to retire from international football.
The Barcelona legend was ever-present for Di Maria’s 16-year Argentina career and both were inspirational figures in the nation’s recent major trophy success, winning the 2022 World Cup and the last two Copa Americas.
While Messi holds the record for most caps (187) and most goals (109), Di Maria is joint-third in Argentina’s all-time appearance list (145) and joint-sixth for goals (31).
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United winger, now at Benfica, was thrown in the air by his teammates during the farewell ceremony.
Manager Lionel Scaloni and his players all donned special Argentina shirts with tributes to their iconic No.11 on the back.
Reflecting on his departure, Di Maria said: “Now I’ll be just another fan, cheering the team on from up there.
“I’ll go to all the Copa Americas and World Cups.
“We will surely keep going this way because this team has a lot of guts.”
Goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez and Paolo Dybala secured a 3-0 win for Argentina in the game against Chile which preceded Di Maria’s send-off.
Inter Miami star Messi did not feature as he continues his recovery from a thigh injury.
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