‘Lionel Messi & Diego Maradona are from another planet!’ - Angel Di Maria explains why it feels like he occupies ‘first’ place on podium of Argentina all-time greats

The 36-year-old forward enjoyed the perfect end to his glittering international career at the 2024 Copa America. Having announced ahead of that tournament that he would be retiring from duty with his country, the former Real Madrid and Juventus star helped the Albiceleste to another continental crown.

He also formed part of Argentina’s victorious squad at the 2022 World Cup – scoring in the final of that competition alongside illustrious countryman Messi. With 145 caps to his name, it has been suggested that Di Maria occupies on a place on the Albiceleste’s GOAT podium.

Di Maria – who has spent several years playing alongside Messi and worked under Maradona at the 2010 World Cup - has responded to those claims by telling ESPN: “It's like being first because Leo and Diego are from another planet! Having been able to play with Leo and having Diego as a coach, that's enough.”

There has been talk of Di Maria being reunited with Messi at club level, as he generates talk of interest from Inter Miami. He is currently taking in a second spell at Portuguese side Benfica, with no move to MLS being put in place as yet.