Benfica Winger Angel Di Maria Seeks New Challenge

Dec 20, 2009 4:01:03 PM

The gifted winger appears to be targeting a big move...

Argentina international Angel di Maria has cast further doubt over his long term future at Benfica by declaring his wish to move to a bigger club.

The 21-year-old has been strongly linked with football away from the Estadio da Luz in recent weeks following a series of impressive performances for Benfica.

Chelsea and Manchester City have both been mooted as interested parties in Di Maria, with the latter reportedly ready to meet the winger's €40m valuation already in the winter transfer window.

Di Maria has made no secret of his desire for a bigger challenge, and he has now repeated his stance, indicating he would like to call time on his stint with Benfica.

"I am very eager to play in a different league," Di Maria told La Red. "I have been in Portugal for three years and going to a bigger club would be very beautiful for me and my career."

Meanwhile, Di Maria, who has been frequently called up by Argentina boss Diego Maradona, hopes he will be included in the squad for the World Cup in South Africa next year.

"It is hard to get a place among the 23 given the quality of Argentina's squad, but I feel I will be at the World Cup and I hope the coach thinks so too," he noted.

"There are many players who can play in my position, but I will fight. I will have to give my all in the few friendly matches that are going to be played."

Luís Mira, Goal.com

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