Overcoming Adversity: Angel Di Maria’s Journey
Angel Di Maria, the former Manchester United ace and current Benfica star, has candidly revealed that he still relies on medication to cope with the emotional scars from his past disappointments with Argentina. The talented wide player, now 37, endured a harrowing three-year period during which he experienced three consecutive final defeats. These losses, including two Copa America finals and the 2014 FIFA World Cup, left an indelible mark on him. Di Maria’s resilience and determination, however, have been evident as he has since rebounded with significant triumphs, clinching the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 and 2024 Copa America titles.
The Emotional Toll of Defeats
The impact of these defeats on Di Maria’s mental health is profound. In an interview with Infobae, he shared, "Because of that I’m still taking the meds. I was able to reduce it [dosage]. I’m much better, but that’s something a little addictive, too. These are things that stay with you, that mark you." The heartbreak of losing such crucial matches not only affected his performance on the field but also took a toll on his personal life. TheNeed to manage these emotions through medication underscores the intense pressure and expectations that come with representing a nation as football-crazy as Argentina.
Redemption and Heroics
Despite the setbacks, Di Maria’s career has seen remarkable redemption. He was the matchwinner in the 2021 Copa America final, scoring the only goal against Brazil. This victory marked a turning point in his career, providing a much-needed boost to his confidence and morale. Di Maria was also a pivotal hero in the 2022 World Cup final, scoring the first goal in Argentina’s win over France. His performances in these crucial matches have solidified his legacy as one of the greatest Argentine players of his generation.
Sympathy for His Teammates
Di Maria has not forgotten the struggles of his former international teammates, many of whom did not achieve the same level of success. He expressed, "Who remembers the boys that reached that World Cup final and didn’t win? Very few, it seems unfair to me. Who is talking about those kids? Nobody. Very few can tell you how they played." This sentiment highlights his deep sense of camaraderie and recognition of the collective effort that goes into every achievement. He has consistently acknowledged that the trophies won by the current generation of Argentine players are also a testament to the efforts of those who came before them.
A New Chapter at Benfica
Di Maria called time on his international career last year, marking the end of a 16-year journey with the national team. However, he remains a vital player for Benfica, where he has continued to impress with 14 goals in 32 appearances this season. Despite his impressive form, he has maintained that leaving international football was the right decision. "I was there for 16 years [with the national team] and it is as if I had been in a club. It’s difficult, but I think I made the right decision. It’s obvious that it tempts me because it’s the national team. I achieved everything I wanted to achieve. I left the way I wanted to leave," he reflected. Di Maria’s decision to step away allows him to focus on his club career and personal well-being, ensuring that he can continue to perform at the highest level.
Looking Forward
While Di Maria has left international football behind, he remains open to the possibility of returning in a different capacity. "I hope one day I can be there again, in a different role," he said, hinting at a potential future involvement in the Argentine national team’s coaching or administrative staff. His journey from the depths of disappointment to the heights of triumph is a testament to his enduring passion for the sport and his unwavering determination to overcome adversity. Angel Di Maria’s story serves as an inspiration to all athletes facing their own challenges, reminding us that resilience and perseverance can lead to the most rewarding victories.
