Ángel Di María has made an emotional return to Rosario Central, his boyhood club, as a free agent after his Benfica contract expired. The 37-year-old Argentine star, who debuted for Rosario in 2005, will join the Argentine Primera División side after playing in the FIFA Club World Cup with Benfica in June 2025. Rosario Central announced the homecoming on May 29, 2025, with a heartfelt social media video, captioned, "Our history together has more pages to write. Welcome home." Di María shared his excitement, posting photos with his family in Rosario Central jerseys, calling it "one of the happiest days of our lives."
Di María’s 18-year European career included stints at Benfica, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Juventus, where he played over 700 matches and won 30 trophies, including the 2013-14 Champions League. Internationally, he secured six titles with Argentina, including the 2022 World Cup and two Copa América crowns. In his final Benfica season, he scored 15 goals and provided 10 assists in 40 games.
The return nearly collapsed last summer due to violent threats against his family, including a disturbing incident involving a pig’s head and a threatening note, amid escalating drug-related violence in Rosario. Enhanced security measures and negotiations led by Rosario Central’s president, Gonzalo Belloso, paved the way for his comeback. Di María turned down lucrative Saudi offers and interest from River Plate to fulfill his dream of playing again for the club where he started at 17. His return is a significant moment for Rosario Central fans, who eagerly await his contributions on the pitch as he writes a new chapter in his storied career.
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