Ángel Di María, the 37-year-old Argentine star, is back at Rosario Central, the club where he began his career, following an official announcement on the afternoon of May 29, 2025, in Rosário, Argentina. The signing, led by club president Gonzalo Belloso, a former teammate, marks the return of the three-time world champion to his hometown after nearly two decades with European clubs and Benfica. Di María will join the squad after competing in the Club World Cup with the Portuguese club, with his re-presentation scheduled for Saturday. The announcement, shared through an emotional video on social media, highlights the player’s deep connection to the club and its fans. The decision comes after Di María overcame serious threats in 2024 that had previously halted his return. The move is expected to bring experience and quality to the Argentine team.
The return of Di María to Rosario Central has sparked excitement among fans, who have long awaited the idol’s comeback. The Rosário-born player has consistently expressed his desire to end his career at the club that launched him. The deal, finalized by Belloso, was sealed after talks that began in 2024.
- Key highlights of the return:
- Signing announced on May 29, 2025.
- Di María joins after the Club World Cup.
- Negotiations led by Gonzalo Belloso, president and former teammate.
The official announcement featured a video that moved fans, showing Di María in the club’s jersey with the message, “Welcome, Ángel, we were waiting for you.” The communication strategy underscores the player’s significance to Rosario Central’s history.
Belloso’s role in negotiations
Gonzalo Belloso, Rosario Central’s president, was instrumental in securing Di María’s return. At 51, Belloso, who played alongside Di María between 2006 and 2007, leveraged their past connection to navigate the negotiations. Talks began in 2024 but were paused due to safety concerns. In 2025, with enhanced security measures, the agreement was finalized. Belloso emphasized the signing’s importance for the club and the city of Rosário, where Di María is a local hero.
Belloso ensured Di María felt secure about returning. The discussions covered not only contractual details but also protections for the player and his family. Belloso’s experience as a former player helped align the club’s and the star’s expectations.
Overcoming past threats
In 2024, Di María was close to rejoining Rosario Central, but severe threats against his family forced him to reconsider. One widely reported incident targeted his parents’ neighborhood. Another, less publicized, involved his sister’s real estate business, with a threatening message referencing his daughter, Pia.
- Details of the 2024 threats:
- A pig’s head with a bullet was left with a menacing note.
- Threats targeted Di María’s parents and sister.
- Di María chose to stay with Benfica for safety.
The incidents caused significant uproar in Rosário, with fans rallying in support. In 2025, with the situation stabilized and security measures strengthened, Di María decided to proceed with the return.
Di María’s career before the return
Ángel Di María left Rosario Central in 2007 at age 19 to join Benfica, launching a stellar European career. He played for clubs like Real Madrid, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and returned to Benfica. His accolades include domestic and international titles, such as the Champions League and three World Cups with Argentina (U-20, Olympic, and 2022 World Cup).
Known for his dribbling and precise assists, Di María’s versatility made him a key figure in top clubs and the national team. In 2025, he chose to return to his roots to close out his career where it began.
Expectations at Rosario Central
Di María’s return is a milestone for Rosario Central, which aims to bolster its squad for national and international competitions. The player arrives as an idol with high-level experience. Coaches and executives expect him to lead on the pitch and mentor younger players.
Fans have shown enthusiasm on social media and in Rosário’s streets. Jerseys bearing Di María’s number 11 are already selling rapidly. The club is planning an official presentation in the coming days, with expectations of a packed Gigante de Arroyito stadium.
- Anticipated benefits of Di María’s arrival:
- Increased club visibility in Argentina and abroad.
- Technical reinforcement for competitions like the Argentine Championship.
- Inspiration for youth academy players.
Ties to Rosário
Di María has always maintained strong ties to Rosário, where he was born and raised. He often visited during vacations and supported local charity events. His return to Rosario Central is seen as a gesture of gratitude to the community that backed him early on.
While at Benfica in 2024, Di María publicly shared his wish to return to his beloved club. His arrival in Rosário on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, to meet his nephew and finalize the deal, drew significant local media attention.
Season preparations
Rosario Central plans to integrate Di María into the squad after the Club World Cup, his final commitment with Benfica. The tournament, set for the coming months, will precede his full dedication to the Argentine club.
The club is organizing its preseason, focusing on adapting the star to the team’s playing style. The head coach is developing tactics to maximize Di María’s vision and playmaking abilities.
Fan reactions
The news of Di María’s return has sparked widespread excitement in Rosário. On social media, fans shared messages of support and clips of his iconic goals for the club. The official announcement, posted on May 29, 2025, garnered millions of views within hours.
- Fan responses:
- Posts with hashtags like #DiMaríaVuelve and #RosarioCentral.
- Surge in ticket sales for upcoming matches.
- Tributes to Di María in murals across the city.
Fans hope Di María’s return will deliver on-field success and strengthen their bond with the club.
Legacy in Argentine football
Ángel Di María is regarded as one of Argentina’s greatest footballers. His decisive goals in international finals and longevity in European clubs cement his status as an icon. Returning to Rosario Central reinforces his connection to Argentina and the club that shaped him.
Di María has expressed interest in supporting local football development, particularly in youth academies. Rosario Central aims to leverage his expertise to attract young talent and enhance its training programs.
Presentation preparations
Rosario Central is arranging an official presentation for Di María, with the date still to be confirmed. The event is expected to take place at the Gigante de Arroyito stadium, with fans and media in attendance. The club is planning a special ceremony featuring videos and tributes.
The event is anticipated to draw thousands, highlighting Di María’s importance to Rosário. Ticket sales for the presentation are being planned, with affordable prices for fans.
