Death threats force Angel Di Maria to abandon Rosario return

Argentinian midfielder Angel Di Maria (36) revealed that threats against his family in Rosario led him to reconsider his decision to return to his childhood club Rosario Central.

Di Maria was a victim of what Argentine authorities have labeled as an attempt by criminal organizations in Rosario to display power, amidst a rise in drug and gang-related violence in the area.

The winger, who recently retired from international football after winning his second Copa America trophy, had initially planned to finish his club career in his hometown after departing from Portuguese side Benfica.

In March, reports emerged of a death threat note being left at Di Maria's family property. He mentioned that his family chose not to report another threat to the police due to fear.

Di Maria shared, "There was a threat at my sister's business, a box with a pig's head and a bullet in the forehead, along with a note warning that if I returned to (Rosario) Central, the next target would be my daughter Pia."

Reflecting on the distressing situation, he expressed, "Those months were unbearable... we could only sit there and cry each night, knowing that our dream of returning home could not be fulfilled."

Last year, Argentina captain Lionel Messi also faced threats. Federal security forces were dispatched to Rosario in March, and Governor Maximiliano Pullaro stated that safety protocols were put in place to protect public figures.

Di Maria criticized, "It is insensitive to discuss security measures and protocols for me when the people of Rosario are unable to work or wait for the bus without the constant threat of being robbed or harmed."