Former Real Madrid player Angel Di Maria, who has entered a countdown to the end of his Argentina career, said on Saturday he was thrilled to have played with the captain's armband but lamented the circumstances in which he usually does so.

Lionel Messi, who sat on the bench in the 'Albiceleste' 2-0 win over Peru, is at the centre of the explanation.

"It's very nice to be the captain of the Argentina national team. Unfortunately, every time it's my turn it's because something is wrong with Leo and that's the only thing I don't like. But we try to do the best we can when he's not there," he said after the match in Miami.

The Portuguese Benfica player completed 143 appearances for the 'Albiceleste' on the final day of the Copa America group stage, one ahead of former defender Javier Zanetti.

 

June 29, 2024