Di María Jersey Number: A Symbol of Talent in Argentine Football

When football fans talk about the iconic number worn by Ángel Di María, the conversation often centers on his dynamic play rather than the digits on his back. Yet the Di María jersey number tells a story that spans clubs, continents, and the Argentine national team. This article explores the evolution of Di María’s numbers, why they matter to fans, and how they fit into the broader context of Argentina soccer players.

Early Career: The Birth of a Number

Ángel Di María began his professional journey with Rosario Central, where he first wore the number 11. The number, traditionally linked to left‑wingers, suited his pace and crossing ability. When he transferred to Benfica in 2007, the Portuguese club assigned him the same 11, reinforcing his identity as a wide attacker.

European Stages and Changing Digits

Di María’s move to Real Madrid in 2010 marked a new chapter. At the Spanish giants, he inherited the number 11 from the legendary left‑winger, a number he kept for three seasons. The jersey became synonymous with his spectacular goals, including the decisive strike in the 2011 Copa del Rey final.

In 2014, after a high‑profile transfer to Manchester United, Di María switched to number 21. The change reflected both squad availability and a personal desire to start fresh in the Premier League. Although his time in England was brief, the Di María jersey number 21 remains a memorable footnote for Premier League followers.

Paris Saint‑Germain and the Return to 11

When Di María joined Paris Saint‑Germain (PSG) in 2015, he reclaimed the number 11. The French club’s tradition of assigning numbers based on position suited his role as a left winger and allowed fans to instantly recognize his presence on the field. During his five‑year stint, the Di María jersey number 11 featured in countless highlights, from league titles to Champions League runs.

Current Club: Juventus and the Number 10 Debate

In 2022, Di María signed with Juventus. While the iconic number 10 is often reserved for the team’s playmaker, Juventus allocated him the number 22. The decision sparked discussion among Italian football enthusiasts, many of whom compared his jersey choice to other Argentine players who have famously worn 10, such as Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona.

Di María’s Number with the Argentina National Team

Argentina’s national squad has its own numbering traditions. Since his debut in 2008, Di María has predominantly worn