Corinthians ends Libertadores dream, Angel Di María evaluates retirement

By:Paulo PiresLibertadores EN21/08/2026at 14:30

Rosario Central’s elimination by Corinthians in the Copa Libertadores has cast doubt on Angel Di María’s future, with the player admitting he needs time to decide whether to continue his career.

The atmosphere at Neo Química Arena was charged with intense tension and rivalry during the round-of-16 clash in the Copa Libertadores. What began as a joke among fans on social media about Argentine star Angel Di María being supposedly ‘retired’ by fullbacks Matheuzinho and Matheus Bidu, became a melancholic reflection of reality for him. After Rosario Central’s elimination, the 38-year-old veteran made his frustration clear.

The star, who returned to his beloved club with the explicit goal of winning the continental title, saw that dream slip through his fingers against Timão. With a decorated career that includes a World Cup title with Argentina and stints with giants like Real Madrid and PSG, Di María now faces the tough decision of rethinking his next steps in the sport.

The Weight of Defeat and Reflection

The player’s frustration was evident immediately after the final whistle. Unable to overcome the solid marking imposed by Corinthians’ defensive system, the midfielder acknowledged the negative impact of the early exit.

“It’s a difficult moment. My dream and my desire were different; I wanted to continue in the competition, but this is football. Now it’s time to reflect and decide what I want to do moving forward.”

Despite having a contract valid until 2027, the feeling that one of his last opportunities to achieve eternal glory in South America slipped away seems to be weighing on the player’s decision.

Tense Clash and Provocations

On the field, the match was characterized by tight marking. In an emblematic play, Di María was hit by the ball from Matheuzinho, symbolizing Corinthians’ combative spirit in the game. Unable to dictate the pace, the Argentine also got into an exchange with the stands. Constantly provoked by the *alvinegro* fans, the star even showed off his World Cup trophy tattoo, reaffirming his legendary status before leaving the pitch.

As highlighted by the M360 Team, Di María’s trajectory in South American football after returning from Europe might be reaching a decisive chapter. It remains to be seen whether the impact of the Copa Libertadores elimination will be the final point of a brilliant career or just a temporary obstacle in his personal motivation.