- He is an Argentinian-Portuguese professional footballer
- He has been getting death threats towards his family
- The threats might be linked to a drug cartel in Rosario or transfer decisions
Football star Angel de Maria is under the shadow of threats towards his family that have made him reconsider his return to Argentina.
He is a footballer who has had a captivating story of talent and overcoming challenges in his career. His journey started in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina playing for Rosario Central and at the age of seventeen, he joined the senior team.
Two years later, he signed with Portuguese club Benfica, helping them win several awards. His impressive performance attracted the attention of Real Madrid and signed a five-year contract where he was particularly influential in the Champions League final.
He then signed with Manchester United in a multi-million deal though injuries hampered his consistency and also struggled to adapt to the Premier League. So, after a season, he moved to Paris Saint-Germain.
He thrived in the French League and during his tenure with PSG, he won five Ligue 1 titles with numerous domestic cups and also reached the Champions League final in 2020. Two years later, he joined Juventus on a free transfer and again injuries cut it short.
Internationally, he has been a regular for the Argentina national team and was part of the squad that won the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Di Maria’s threats towards his family
The successful football player has currently been faced with a serious situation of threats made against him and his family. In March 2024, a chilling message was left at the entrance of his family’s neighbourhood in Rosario, Argentina.
Angelo Di Maria faces unexplained threats. Photo/Sky Sports
The note reportedly threatened him with violence if he returned to his hometown and warned him that they would harm his family if he failed to comply. This incident sent shockwaves through the footballing world and they raised concerns about Di Maria’s safety.
The reasons behind the threats are still not known with some reports speculating a possible link to a drug cartel operating in Rosario, a city notorious for gang violence while others suggest a misguided attempt to influence his career.
These threats highlight the dark side of football and the authorities in Argentina should have thorough investigations to get to the source and ensure the safety of his family.
Speculation around transfer and retirement
The footballer was considering a return to Argentina after a successful spell in Europe but these threats could make him hesitant to return. Some news outlets speculate that he might move to a Major Soccer league in the United States.
If he moves to the MSL, he could reunite with his former teammates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at Inter Miami, offering a safer environment. This situation is one among many o f the challenges faced by footballers even those at the pinnacle of the sport.
Hopefully, a solution can be found , allowing him to continue with his illustrious career with security for him and his entire family.
Di Maria legacy in Argentina and the football world
His international career is a testament to his enduring contribution to his country as he has been a constant presence since making his debut in 2008, accumulating over 130 caps and scoring 29 goals as of today.
Angelo Di Mario. Photo/Eurosport
He played a role in Argentina’s recent golden era, finally ending their major trophy drought by lifting the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 FIFA World Cup, his winning goal in the Copa America final against arch-rivals Brazil remains etched in the hearts of Argentinians.
He has a reputation of rising to the occasion on the biggest stages. His goal against France in the 2022 World Cup final showcased his composure and finishing under immense pressure, and he is more than speed and agility.
Beyond Argentina, Di Maria has graced some of the biggest clubs in Europe, leaving a mark wherever he played. He boasts a trophy cabinet overflowing with League titles, domestic cups and Champions League crown with Real Madrid.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login