There’s something about watching a career wind down just as it peaks. Ángel Di María, the man who scored in three consecutive Argentina finals, stepped away from international football after the 2024 Copa América — a decision he announced a year in advance. But at 36 and thriving back at his childhood club Rosario Central, some fans are already wondering if the door is still open for a 2026 World Cup return.

Age: 36 ·
Current club: Rosario Central (as of 2025) ·
International appearances: 145 ·
Goals for Argentina: 31 ·
Major trophies: Copa América, Finalissima, World Cup

Has Di María Retired?

Yes, Ángel Di María has retired from international football. He announced in October 2023 that the 2024 Copa América would be his last tournament with the Argentina national team, telling ESPN that it was “over for me.” He has not retired from club football — he continues to play for Rosario Central, the club where his career began.

Why Did Di María Retire from International Football?

Di María’s decision was driven by a desire to leave on a high note. He told ESPN that he wanted to “leave in this way, with the group” after feeling he had achieved everything. Family considerations also played a role: he mentioned wanting to spend more time with his wife and children.

The catch

Di María’s last international goal was the winner in the 2021 Copa América final against Brazil. He also scored in the 2022 World Cup final and the 2024 Copa América final. For a player whose biggest moments all came in finals, leaving after yet another trophy felt poetically complete.

What was Di María’s role in the 2022 World Cup final?

  • He scored Argentina’s second goal in the 36th minute, finishing a team move involving Messi and Julián Álvarez.
  • He was substituted in the 64th minute due to injury concerns, missing the dramatic extra-time and penalty shootout (Marca).

“I feel like I have achieved everything and I want to leave in this way, with the group.”

— Ángel Di María, on his retirement decision (ESPN)

Bottom line: Ángel Di María has retired from international football on his own terms, after delivering Argentina’s most clutch performances in a generation. For fans hoping for a 2026 World Cup return, the evidence points to a firm no. For Rosario Central supporters, the joy is having him home. For Argentina, the search for the next big-game hero begins now.
What did Di María say about his retirement?

He told ESPN in October 2023: “I will leave the Argentina national team after the Copa America. It’s over for me, it will be the last tournament.” After the 2024 final, he said he felt he had achieved everything and wanted to leave with the group.

Is Di María playing in the 2026 World Cup?

No. Di María stated he would not play in the 2026 World Cup (Marca). He retired from international football after the 2024 Copa América and has not indicated any intention to return.

How many goals has Di María scored for Argentina?

Di María scored 31 goals in 145 appearances for Argentina between 2008 and 2024. His last international goal came in the 2024 Copa América final against Colombia.

What trophies has Di María won with Argentina?

He won the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 Finalissima (vs Italy), the 2022 World Cup, and the 2024 Copa América — four major trophies in four years.