Not Messi, Di Maria points directly to his 'dream teammate'

27/08/2025 11:34:00 FieldFrenzy

Angel Di Maria selected a former PSG colleague to play alongside him in Argentina’s top division, and that player is not Lionel Messi.

Currently in the final years of his career, Angel Di Maria plays for Rosario Central in his homeland. Many once dreamed of a perfect ending with him alongside Lionel Messi, the iconic teammate from Argentina’s national team. However, Di Maria surprised everyone by mentioning another name, his close friend and former PSG teammate, Neymar.

After scoring a stunning free-kick against Newell's Old Boys, the Rosario Central captain once again became the center of attention off the pitch. In a statement that thrilled Canalla fans, he revealed that Neymar is actually the player he dreams of partnering with in the derby against Newell’s, Messi’s childhood club.

When asked which global star he would pick to join him in a clasico match, Di Maria answered without hesitation: “Because of our close bond, I would choose Neymar. I really like him. We have a great relationship and keep in regular contact. I know Neymar loves Argentine football and he would definitely want to experience a Central - Newell’s match.”

Không phải Messi, Di Maria chỉ thẳng 'đồng đội trong mơ' 692782 — Di Maria wishes to play alongside Neymar in the derby against Newell's Old Boys

Not stopping there, Di Maria hinted at the possibility of bringing Neymar to Argentina in the future: “I really want him to be here. Maybe one day I can invite him over. That would be something special.” Though not Messi, the friendship Di Maria has built with Neymar in Paris remains strong and irreplaceable.

Di Maria and Neymar played together at PSG from 2017 to 2022. During this period, their on- and off-field chemistry was vital for the team. With Di Maria’s hardworking wing play and Neymar’s creativity and skill through the middle, they formed one of PSG’s most fearsome attacking pairs. Alongside Kylian Mbappe, they consistently created numerous chances, helping the Parisian club maintain its top status in Europe.

The peak of their collaboration came in the 2019/20 Champions League season, especially in the semifinal in Lisbon. Di Maria delivered an outstanding performance with one goal and two assists, including a setup for Neymar. That year, PSG reached the Champions League final for the first time in their history.

Off the pitch, their friendship is also very strong. Despite representing rival national teams in South America, Di Maria and fellow Argentine Leandro Paredes often tease Neymar about the 2021 Copa America final, where Argentina defeated Brazil at Maracana. This shows their bond transcends competitive boundaries.

Không phải Messi, Di Maria chỉ thẳng 'đồng đội trong mơ' 692786 — Di Maria and Neymar’s friendship remains strong despite the rivalry between Argentina and Brazil

In 2022, when Di Maria left PSG, Neymar dedicated a goal in the final match to honor his close teammate. That moment reaffirmed the respect and special affection they have for each other. The “Angel” departed leaving behind not only a legacy as a world-class player but also as a close friend. Together, Di Maria and Neymar have left a lasting mark in PSG's modern history and in the friendship between two South American stars who shaped a generation in Paris.

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