In the Spotlight for World Cup Return: Di María

Argentine football legend Ángel Di María, who retired from international duty in 2024, continues to make headlines with his remarkable form. At 38 years old, the winger—who scored 31 goals in 145 appearances for Argentina—is still performing at an elite level. Back at his boyhood club, Rosario Central, he has been consistently finding the net, proving that age is no barrier to quality.

On Monday, Di María scored in a 2-0 victory over Barracas Central in the Argentine Primera División. In the two preceding matches, he had assisted two more goals for his teammates. His achievement of scoring at 38 years places him among just four players in Rosario Central’s history to reach such a milestone at this age, underlining that experience and skill endure beyond youth.

Recent Form of Ángel Di María

The possibility of Di María returning for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be held across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, has been endorsed by Argentine goalkeeping legend Ubaldo Matildo Fillol. The 1978 World Cup winner shared via social media that several coaching staff members and players are encouraging Di María to rejoin the national team.

Fillol commented, “From what I have heard, efforts are underway to bring him back. Given his current performances, there is no doubt he is still ready to play. I believe it is possible to persuade him to participate in the next World Cup.” He further noted that current coach Lionel Scaloni could find a valuable role for Di María in the squad.

Reactions on social media to Fillol’s remarks have been mixed. Some believe that Di María’s farewell from Argentina’s national team was a fitting conclusion to his international career. Others, however, hope to see him don the sky-blue-and-white once more in pursuit of World Cup glory. One fan wrote, “If we want to become world champions again, he must be included.” Another added, “Even if he doesn’t start regularly, he should at least be part of the squad.”

Fillol also highlighted that, although Lionel Messi now plays in Major League Soccer, the Argentine league remains highly competitive. Regular strong performances in this environment are proof of Di María’s enduring ability. “He still has the pace, the hunger, and the goal-scoring instinct,” said Fillol.

While no official decision has been made about his World Cup return, the combination of his performance, veteran support, and current form places Ángel Di María once again at the centre of international football discussion. Whether he will feature in Argentina’s squad for 2026 remains the sport’s most eagerly anticipated question.