Will he become a coach? This is what Ángel Di María said about his future

Ángel Di María, one of the most iconic figures in recent Argentine national team history, is enjoying his final years as a player at Benfica. With a trophy-laden career full of unforgettable moments, the Rosario native spoke with DSports Radio about his experiences with Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona, while hinting at his future plans as a potential coach.

Di María, nicknamed "El Fideo," stated that his bond with Messi goes beyond the football field. Together, they formed one of the most iconic duos in the Albiceleste’s history, achieving successes such as the 2008 Olympic gold medal in Beijing, the Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, the 2022 Finalissima, and the historic World Cup victory in Qatar 2022.

The Connection with Messi and Maradona

Di María spared no praise when talking about Messi: “Leo was the best thing that happened to me in my career. I’ve always said it, for me, it was like playing with Diego. Sharing so many years, winning titles together, and building a friendship is something unique. When he left Barcelona, Leandro Paredes and I told him to come to PSG because we wanted to continue living that with him."

Despite never playing for Barcelona, he confessed, “It would have been the perfect ending to be with him every day at that team, but the important thing was to share the field, whether it was at the club or with the national team.”

Regarding Maradona, Di María expressed his eternal gratitude. “Diego was like a second father to me. He always supported me, even in the toughest moments. In the 2010 World Cup, he stood by me when I needed it most. It was like he was always there to offer advice, to talk at key moments,” he recalled emotionally.

Looking Toward the Future

Though he hasn’t set a date for retirement yet, Di María is taking the first steps toward a possible coaching career. “I’m doing the coaching course to see how things go in the future. I don’t have anything decided yet, but I want to be prepared. It’s the closest thing you can have to being a player,” he explained.

El Fideo admitted that he has heard many former players talk about the void left by retirement: “They say you miss the adrenaline. That’s why I’m seeing how I feel about this. I still don’t know if I’d like to be a coach, but I want to have the option.”

An Eternal Place in Argentine Football

Di María knows that his name is already etched in the great history of the Argentine national team. From the most challenging moments, like the lost finals, to the unforgettable triumphs that crowned Lionel Scaloni’s era, the Rosario native has been a key player.

• Di María emphasized his special connection with Messi, calling him the best teammate he ever had.
• He expressed his love and gratitude toward Diego Maradona, whom he considered a paternal figure and an inspiration during crucial moments.
• Although he hasn't set a date for his retirement, he is taking coaching courses as preparation for his future.
• He is considering the possibility of becoming a coach, though he is uncertain if that will be his final choice.
• He reflected on his legacy with the national team, recalling the losses that strengthened him and the titles that established him as a legend of Argentine football.