Inter Miami star makes feelings clear about Angel Di Maria rejecting Lionel Messi reunion; says Argentina legend would’ve ‘stolen’ assists
Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria will not have a fairytale reunion in Miami, which surprised Inter Miami full-back Julian Gressel. The MLS Eastern Conference leaders were linked with a move for Argentina legend Di Maria, but the Benfica forward will not be joining the club.
Inter Miami signed Messi in July 2023, and the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner immediately raised the level of the club on and off the pitch. The Herons were rock bottom of the Eastern Conference before his arrival, but sit atop the standings just one year later.
MLS Cup winner Gressel was one of the players who joined the club after Lionel Messi's arrival, and he has been key for them this year. On the Player Manager Podcast, the USMNT international addressed rumors linking Di Maria to the club, expressing slight relief that he would not be joining.
“I’m a little surprised that it didn’t happen because Messi is just kinda getting the band back together."
“I mean on the bright side Di Maria would have stolen just a few assists from Julian Gressel."
The versatile player has been one of the most creative players for the Herons this season, and joked that Di Maria would have stolen his assists. He has recorded six assists and one goal since Lionel Messi went away with the Argentina national team for Copa America 2024.
Inter Miami manager Gerardo Martino had expressed apprehension at the possibility of Angel Di Maria joining the club this summer when the rumors were rife. The Argentine manager was aware of the salary limitations placed upon teams by the MLS, and that Di Maria would not be a feasible addition.
Angel Di Maria set to remain at Benfica, misses out on Lionel Messi reunion
Angel Di Maria will not be moving back to Argentina or teaming up with long-time international teammate Lionel Messi this summer. The Argentine great will continue his career at Benfica after agreeing to a one-year extension with the Portuguese giants.
Fabrizio Romano has reported that Di Maria will continue with the Portuguese side until the end of the 2024-25 season, with an agreement already in place. The forward played 48 times for Benfica in 2023-24, contributing 17 goals and 15 assists for his side.
Angel Di Maria played alongside Messi for the final time at the Copa America this summer as Argentina won the title. He has announced his retirement from international football in the wake of the tournament.