There is no doubt that Ángel Di María is among the biggest legends in the history of the Argentina National Team. His decisive goals in finals—against Nigeria at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Brazil in the 2021 Copa América, Italy in the 2022 Finalissima, and France in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar—place him right next to Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi.
However, in true humble fashion, Di María does not consider himself one of the top five greatest players in Albiceleste history. Speaking with La Nación, he stated: “For me, the top three are Messi, Maradona, and Kempes. Then I think Passarella should be one of them. And after that, De Paul, who has been a fundamental piece of this national team project.”
Di María also emphasized the importance of Rodrigo De Paul, who now plays for Inter Miami, in the success of Lionel Scaloni’s team. “The life he brought back to the squad! As people say, he’s not only the engine on the pitch but also off it—within the group, in friendships, in that positive atmosphere. Without wearing the armband, he’s still a captain,” said Fideo.
In response, De Paul took to Instagram to thank Di María: “It means a lot that you, the one who scored in all the finals, would say that—and that you’re humble enough not to include yourself.” To which Di María replied warmly: “I love you. Keep enjoying yourself.”
Di María’s plea for Messi to play in 2026
With his voice carrying massive weight in Argentine football, Di María openly requested that Lionel Messi be part of the squad for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
“No matter what condition he’s in, Leo must play the World Cup. It’s him, and he makes the team grow while keeping the people’s hope alive. He’s like Diego—players from another planet. We have to keep enjoying him, and hopefully he gets there in the best shape possible,” he declared.
Watching Messi in the MLS
Currently playing for Rosario Central, Di María admitted that he now follows Major League Soccer matches just to watch his lifelong friend: “He’s an alien; we can’t miss the chance to keep watching him. I had never watched the MLS before, but now I’ve subscribed just to see Inter Miami games—only because Messi is there, because I want to keep watching him.”