Angel Di Maria has had a stellar career that has spanned some of the biggest clubs in the world. From Real Madrid to Manchester United to Paris Saint-Germain now, the Argentine has had the opportunity to play alongside several top players.
In an interview with TyC Sports (via Goal), Di Maria was asked about some of his world-class teammates but held one in higher esteem than the rest.
“It was a dream to have the possibility to play with [Wayne] Rooney, [Zlatan] Ibrahimovic, Cristiano [Ronaldo], Leo [Messi]… they were players that I used on the PlayStation and I would never have imagined I’d get to play with them.”
“I used to watch them and then to have the opportunity to play with them was really nice.”
“Leo is the best of the four, Cristiano is a monster and Neymar is simply a joy for football. He’s Brazilian and when he plays all he does is have fun.”
“Ibra is crazy, a total character. On the pitch he might seem like a bad guy but he is awesome, a really good guy. I got along with him very well when he was here.”
“Rooney is a quiet guy. I never thought he would be as strong as he is. With all the great players I have played with, it’s hard to choose. But if I had to pick one, it would be Leo.”
Di Maria also discussed current teammate Kylian Mbappé who is widely considered to be the one to replace either Ronaldo or Messi at the top once they retire from the game.
“Mbappé is a little animal. He has a great mentality. He’s a good boy, always calm, and plays at a high level. Even with everything he has done, he can do more. If he continues with the mentality he has, I know that he will win the Ballon d’Or.”
Di Maria is no slouch himself. While he may not quite be on the level of Ronaldo and Messi, he is a vital player for PSG. Through 29 appearances in all competitions this season, Di Maria has recorded 10 goals and 14 assists.
Di Maria’s ability to score goals and set up his teammates is likely what forced manager Thomas Tuchel to go with a 4-4-2 formation in order to include him with Mbappé, Neymar, and Mauro Icardi in the starting lineup.
It will be interesting as the UEFA Champions League marches on as there is a possibility PSG and FC Barcelona could meet each other and Di Maria will have to outperform his friend Messi.
Want more PSG? Visit the PSG Talk Podcast Network page and subscribe to PSG Talking, The 1970, and 24th & Parc.
