An emotional Ángel Di María made a heartfelt return to his childhood club Rosario Central on Monday, nearly two decades after leaving the Argentine side for Europe.

Fighting back tears, the 37-year-old World Cup-winning forward was officially unveiled as Rosario Central’s newest signing, marking a homecoming he had long dreamed of but was delayed by threats from drug gangs operating in the crime-ridden city.

“Coming home after so long is something very special. It was what I wanted—to play for Central again,” Di María said during his presentation. “Winning a title with Central is the one thing I’ve yet to achieve.”

The winger, who began his football journey at the club at the age of four and debuted professionally in 2005, had left for Europe in 2007 after impressing in the U-17 World Cup. He went on to play for top European clubs including Real Madrid, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, and Benfica, amassing nearly 30 major trophies.

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He played a key role in Argentina’s victory over France in the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar and also contributed to two Copa América wins. Most recently, Di María featured for Benfica in the Club World Cup, scoring three goals before the Portuguese side exited in the round of 16 against Chelsea.

“Right now, I’m not thinking about retirement,” he said. “I’m thinking about playing, enjoying myself, and maintaining the level I’ve been performing at.”

Rosario Central, located 300 km north of Buenos Aires, has struggled with violence and drug-related crime, factors that previously prevented Di María from returning.

Still, the star forward says he is determined to end his career where it all began—with the hope of delivering a long-awaited title to his boyhood club.

Source: Agency