"There's no chance of convincing me" – Argentina legend confirms he will retire after Copa America 2024
Argentina legend Angel Di Maria has reiterated that he will hang up his boots after the ongoing Copa America, which is set to end on July 14.
After La Albiceleste's 2-0 Group A win over Peru this Saturday (June 29), Di Maria opined on international retirement (h/t X/@RoyNemer):
"That's it. God willing, it's three matches and nothing more. There's no chance of convincing me."
Last November, Di Maria revealed that he will retire from international football after the Copa America 2024. He elaborated on Instagram:
"Well, the last qualifying match has arrived for me. I cannot express in words how much the people's applause fills my soul in this last time. I enjoy every second of that affection and that of my teammates, my friends. Without them, this story would not have the same meaning. The love of each one of them made me who I am today."
Di Maria, who is set to turn 37 next February, continued on his post:
"The Copa America will be the last time I wear the Argentine shirt. With all the pain in my soul and feeling a lump in my throat, I say goodbye to the most beautiful thing that happened to me in my career, wearing it, sweating it and feeling it with all the pride. Thank you fans, thank you family, thank you friends and teammates, we continue making history and that will remain for all eternity."
Di Maria, who registered 17 goals and 15 assists for Benfica last season, has lifted three trophies for Argentina since his debut in 2008. He has recorded 31 goals and 32 assists in 143 outings for them so far.
Argentina star Lautaro Martinez comments on his latest display at Copa America 2024
Earlier on Saturday, Argentina recorded their third straight win at the Copa America 2024 as they beat Peru 2-0. Lautaro Martinez netted the opener in the 47th minute before scoring another in the 86th minute.
After the clash, the Inter Milan captain told TyC Sports (h/t Reuters):
"I'm happy, because I was able to score in the three group-stage games and because I was able to help the team, which is what counts. I'm fine, as I said when the match with Chile ended, I had a great season at my club and I felt good. I felt ready to get rid of the thorn from the World Cup, that was important for me, to prepare well for the Copa America, which I did and I'm showing it."
Martinez, who netted 27 goals in 44 games for his club in the 2023-24 season, has netted four goals for Argentina at the ongoing tournament.