Benfica Star Angel Di Maria Confirms Departure After Second Stint

‎Angel Di Maria has announced that he will not be returning to Benfica next season.

‎The Argentine forward made the statement after the club failed to secure the Liga Portugal title, finishing second two points behind champions Sporting following a 1-1 draw at Braga on Saturday.

‎The 37-year-old, who retired from international duty last year after earning 145 caps for Argentina, has spent a total of five years at Benfica across two spells.

‎He rejoined the club in 2023 following stints at Real Madrid, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Juventus.

‎”It hurts a lot to end this way after such a long year. It was my last championship match with this shirt and I’m proud to have been able to wear it again,” Di Maria wrote on Instagram.

‎”There’s still a final on Sunday and we’re going to go there with all our desire and joy to win it. Together as always. Thanks for your support, Benfica fans.”

‎Benfica will face Sporting in the Portuguese Cup final on May 25, before launching their Club World Cup campaign on June 16.