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Di Maria’s International Retirement: The Exit of a Legend.

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Di Maria’s International retirement has been one that left many football fans uncertain after Di Maria declared his intention to retire from international football after the 2024 Copa America win.

Di Maria's international retirement image

However, Angel Di Maria announced his retirement from international football after winning the 2024 Copa America in the final against Colombia.

Angel Di Maria’s illustrious career with the Argentine National team is a story of determination and hurdles.

DI MARIA’S INTERNATIONAL RETIREMENT: EARLY YEARS WITH THE NATIONAL TEAM.

Angel Di Maria’s international career began on September 6, 2008, when he made his debut for Argentina against Paraguay in a World Cup qualifier. Although, he was just 20 years old at the time.

Di Maria

 

FIRST GOAL

Di Maria scored his first goal for Argentina on October 14, 2009, in a friendly match against Germany.

The match was played at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany. Although, Di Maria came on as a substitute in the 67th minute and scored his first goal just 13 minutes later, in the 80th minute.

The goal was a stunning left-footed shot from outside the box that curled into the top corner, leaving the German goalkeeper with no chance. Argentina won the match 1-0.

FIRST ASSIST

Afterwards, Di Maria’s first assist for Argentina came on October 10, 2009, in a World Cup qualifier against Bolivia.

The match was played at the Estadio Antonio V. Liberti in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Di Maria provided the assist for Sergio Agüero’s goal in the 16th minute, which gave Argentina an early lead. Argentina won the match 2-1.

In his early years with the national team, Di Maria also played in the 2010 World Cup, where Argentina reached the quarterfinals.

Di Maria's 2010 World Cup image

He scored one goal in the tournament, against Switzerland in the round of 16.

IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCES

As a result, Di Maria’s impressive performances in the 2010 World Cup and subsequent friendlies earned him a starting spot in the Argentina team.

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He further became known for his pace, skill, and creativity on the wing, providing numerous assists and scoring crucial goals.

In 2011, Di Maria played a key role in Argentina’s Copa America campaign, scoring one goal and providing two assists as the team reached the quarterfinals.

The 2012-2013 season was a breakthrough year for Di Maria, both with Real Madrid and Argentina.

Furthermore, he scored 7 goals and provided 17 assists for Real Madrid, helping the team win the La Liga title.

For Argentina, Di Maria scored 3 goals and provided 5 assists in 2012, including a crucial goal against Uruguay in a World Cup qualifier.

By 2013-2014, Di Maria had established himself as one of the world’s top wingers.

He scored 4 goals and provided 7 assists for Real Madrid, helping the team win the UEFA Champions League.

For Argentina, Di Maria scored 2 goals and provided 4 assists in 2013, including a crucial assist against Ecuador in a World Cup qualifier.

Afterwards, Di Maria’s exceptional form continued into the 2014 World Cup, where he played a key role in Argentina’s run to the final.

Di Maria’s performances in the 2014 World Cup were outstanding, as he scored one goal and provided two assists in the tournament.

He was named to the FIFA World Cup All-Star Team and won the Bronze Ball award as the third-best player in the tournament.

DI MARIA’S INTERNATIONAL RETIREMENT: HIGHS AND LOWS WITH THE NATIONAL TEAM.

After the World Cup, Di Maria suffered a thigh injury that kept him out for several weeks. Although he returned to action in October 2014 but struggled to regain his form.

In 2015, Di Maria suffered another injury, this time to his groin, which kept him out for several months.

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Afterward, he returned to action in March 2015 and slowly regained his form.

In August 2015, Di Maria joined Paris Saint-Germain for a fee of €63 million. He quickly regained his form, scoring 10 goals and providing 18 assists in his first season with the club.

For Argentina, Di Maria scored 2 goals and provided 3 assists in 2015, including a crucial goal against Colombia in a World Cup qualifier.

Di Maria played a key role in Argentina’s Copa America Centenario campaign, scoring one goal and providing two assists as the team reached the final.

However, the team lost the final against Chile on penalties. The losses were consistent as Di Maria and the national team lost the 2015 and 2016 Copa America finals.

It was followed by their early exit in the 2018 WC after losing their round of 16 against France with Angel Di Maria scoring a goal and providing an assist as the team lost 4-2.

DI MARIA’S INTERNATIONAL RETIREMENT: SUCCESSES WITH THE ARGENTINE TEAM.

Indeed, amid darkness, light is near. The darkness and concurrent final losses that plagued Di Maria and the Argentine National team finally came to an end.

It all started when they won the 2021 Copa America against Brazil courtesy of Angel Di Maria’s goal in the 2nd half which was enough to seal the victory and hand Di Maria his first major international trophy.

Afterward, the team faced Italy, the winners of the Euros, in a match that ended 3-0 in favor of Di Maria and the Argentine national team. Di Maria and the Argentine team added the Finallisima to their trophy cabinet.

What seemed to be a fluke was beginning to seem real as afterwards Di Maria and the Argentine National team went further to win the 2022 World Cup against France, in a match that’s poised to be one of the greatest World Cup finals.

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2022 WC image

Di Maria assisted the opener by winning a penalty and afterward scored a spectacular goal in the first half of the game.

He ended his World Cup campaign by scoring one goal and registering 2 assists.

DI MARIA’S PERSONAL AWARDS AND TROPHIES.

Angel Di Maria International retirement marks the end of an era. Throughout his illustrious career, he registered 145 appearances, 31 goals, and 32 assists via transfermrkt. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy.

“El Fideo” leaves behind a remarkable legacy. His dedication, skill, and passion inspired a generation of footballers and fans worldwide.

TROPHIES AND PERSONAL AWARDS

– 2024 Copa America.
– 2022 Fifa World Cup.
– 2022 Finallismsa.
– 2021 Copa America.
– Olympic Gold Medal (2008).
– Argentine Footballer of the Year (2014).

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Angel Di Maria’s retirement from international football is one that has left fans with mixed feelings as we all wanted to see him don the Albiceleste blue colours in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

But, He decided to call it time on his illustrious career with the La Albiceleste. Going through his contributions, stats, awards and trophies, one can say Di Maria exited the international stage with his head held up high.

How would you describe Di Maria’s career as an Argentine player? Let me know in the comment section.

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To cap off Angel Di Maria’s International retirement, let’s go back in time to his most stunning goals with the Argentine national team.

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Biography & Networth

Ousmane Dembélé Stats: From Vernon’s Streets to PSG Stardom

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Ousmane Dembélé, aged 28, currently valued at €90M, is one of the hottest name in football right now, and with rumours circulating about him being the winner of this year prestigious Balon D’ Or award in September. Let’s get right into Ousmane Dembélé stats, early life, career, and professional summary.

Full Name: Masour Ousmane Dembélé

Date of Birth: May 15, 1997

Place of Birth: Vernon, Normandy, France

Nationality: French

Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in)

Position: Forward / Winger

Current Club: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)

Jersey Number: 10

Ousmane Dembélé stats: Wife and Personal life

Dembélé is known to live a quiet life off the pitch. In December 2021, he got married in a traditional ceremony. He’s fluent in multiple languages and remains deeply connected to his African roots.

Early Life and Family Background

Ousmane Dembélé was born in Vernon, France, into a culturally rich West African family. His father hails from Mali, while his mother has Mauritanian and Senegalese roots. Though raised in a humble background, Dembélé grew up with strong family values and a deep passion for football.

Ousmane Dembélé stats image

 

 

Even as a child, football wasn’t just a game — it was his world. Supported strongly by his mother and uncles, he began playing in the streets and later moved on to grassroots clubs where his unique style quickly caught attention.

Playing Style and Strengths

Dembélé is famous for his two-footed ability, explosive speed, and dazzling dribbling. He’s one of the few players who can switch flanks seamlessly, creating space and opportunities for teammates, and also known not to have a weak foot.

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He has also significantly improved in his decision-making and his fitness have made him even more effective in recent seasons.

Youth Development and Rise to Fame

Ousmane Dembélé began his youth career with ALM Évreux and later joined the youth academy at Rennes in 2010. He stood out for his pace, technical ability, and ambidextrous dribbling — traits that shaped his early reputation, and still making a name for him even after 15 years.

Osumane Dembélé stats: Rennes to PSG.

Let’s take a look at Ousmane Dembélé  stats across major clubs in his career so far:

Stade Rennais (2015–2016)

– Appearances: 29

– Goals: 12

– Assists: 5

This breakout season in Ligue 1 made him one of the most exciting young prospects in Europe. It was a bright start for Ousmane Dembélé as it began his rise to stardom as he signed with Bundesliga giants, Borussia Dortmund, playing alongside Jadon Sancho and Marco Reus.

Borussia Dortmund (2016–2017)

– Appearances: 50

– Goals: 10

– Assists: 21

Ousnme Dembélé formed a great attack trident with Jadon Sancho and Marco Reus, which helped Dortmund win the DFB-Pokal and came close to bringing an end to Bayern Munich’s strong dominance.

His time at Dortmund helped shape out his creativity, link-up play and fearlessness on the ball.

FC Barcelona (2017–2023)

– Appearances: 185

– Assists: 41

– Goals: 40

Ousmane Dembélé moved to Barcelona in the summer of 2017 for a transfer fee of €148M, donning the No 11 shirt previously worn by Brazil star, Neyamr Junior.

Though he was touted and signed to replace Neymar Jr, his recurring injuries and inconsistencies were a big problem as he couldn’t live up to expectations. Although, he showed flashes of brilliance and came through for the club, he unexpectedly left the club few days before the new season started, to the surprise of many football fans.

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Paris Saint-Germain (2023–Present)

In his return to Ligue 1, Dembélé’s form improved drastically:

– Appearances: 97
– Goals: 41
– Assists: 31

Dembélé joined PSG for a transfer fee of €50M from Spanish Giants, Barcelona. Though, his first season wasn’t too convincing as he battled with fitness.

However, there has been a reasuegence and he has become one of PSG’s most productive players, and a core part of Luis Enrique’s project at the club and he is currently en route to be the next Balon d Or winner.

Ousmane Dembélé Stats: National team.

Dembélé made his debut for the French national team in 2016 and has represented Les Bleus in multiple major tournaments.

– Total Caps: 56.

– Goals: 7.

– Assists: 4.

Honors and Achievements

Club Titles:

– Dortmund: 1x German Cup.

– Barcelona: 3x La Liga, 2x Copa del Rey, 2x Supercopa de España

– PSG: 2x Ligue 1, 2xCoupe de France, 2x French Cup, UEFA Champions League (2025), 1x UEFA Super Cup.

International:
– FIFA World Cup: Winner (2018), Runner-up (2022)

Individual:
– Ligue 1 Player of the Year: 2025.

– Ligue 1 Golden boot: 2025.

– UEFA Champions League Best Forward: 2025.

Final Thoughts:

Ousmane Dembélé stats and career path reveals that of a truth, he is a generational talent. Though, his bloom came rather late, but he has absolutely taken the world by surprise.

This year has seen his name constantly making the news and been on the lips of every football fan and with the Balon D’Or seeming to be the medal to the belt. One can only imagine how high he will fly in coming years!

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Indeed, the sky has become his starting point.

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Biography & Networth

Saka vs Palmer Stats: Goals, Assists, Market Value & Awards 2025.

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Saka vs Palmer stats

Saka vs Palmer stats comparison! When it comes to young emerging stars in English football, Bukayo Saka and Cole Palmer are two names on the lips of every English football fan. They are national teammates but club rivals.

Saka vs Palmer stats

With age on their side and each of them showing brilliant signs of leadership on and off the pitch, and each of them being seen as the fulcrum of their teams; Arsenal and Chelsea respectively. It’s no surprise that fans and analysts like to compare their performance.

Popularly asked questions include:

– Saka vs Palmer last season’s stats 24/25.
– Saka vs Palmer goals and assists comparison.
– Saka vs Palmer market value.
– Saka vs Palmer individual awards.

In this post, we’ll break it all down and help you see who edges the other — Saka or Palmer.

Bukayo Saka vs Cole Palmer last season’s stats 24/25 season

This is a comparison of the official goals and assists racked by these two brilliant footballers.

Bukayo Saka:

Matches played: 37 for club, 12 for country.

Goals:12 for club, 1 for country.

Assists: 14 for club, 1 for country.

Cole Palmer:

Matches played: 52 for club, 11 for country.

Goals: 18 for club, 2 for country.

Assists: 14 for club, 1 for country.

– Saka maintained consistency for Arsenal, with solid contributions in goals and creativity.

– Palmer, in his breakout Chelsea season, showed exceptional attacking numbers despite fewer appearances.

Saka vs Palmer Goals and Assists Overall Comparison

This is a record of official goals and assists racked up by Bukayo Saka and Cole Palmer at senior level.

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Bukayo Saka:

Matches played: 288 for club (Arsenal), 44 for country.

Goals: 76 goals for club, 12 goals for country.,

Assists: 80 assists for club, 8 assists for country.

Cole Palmer:

Matches played: 141 at club ( Chelsea and Manchester City), 12 for country.

Goals: 71 for club, 2 for country.

Assists: 32 for club, 1 for country.

Bukayo Saka vs Palmer Premier League stats comparison:

Bukayo Saka:

Matches played: 195.
Goals: 53.
Assists: 51.

Cole Palmer:

Matches played: 89.
Goals: 37.
Assists: 21.

Saka vs Palmer Market Value (2025)

As of 2025 via Transfermarkt:

– Bukayo Saka: €150 million
– Cole Palmer: €120 million

Saka’s longer consistency, international presence, and marketability give him a higher valuation. Palmer’s value, however, has surged and could rise further as he rises through the ranks.

Saka vs Palmer Individual Awards and Trophies

Bukayo Saka:

1: Individual awards:

– England Men’s Player of the Year: 2021–22, 2022–23.

– Premier League Player of the Month: March 2023.

– PFA Team of the Year: 2022–23 Premier League.

– PFA Young Player of the Year: 2022–23.

– Arsenal Player of the Season: 2020–21, 2021–22.

– IFFHS Men’s Youth (U20) World Team: 2021.

– London Football Awards Men’s Young Player of the Year: 2023.

2: Trophies:

A: Arsenal

– FA Cup: 2019–20.

– FA Community Shield: 2020,2023.

– UEFA Europa League runner-up: 2018–19.

B: England

– UEFA European Championship runner-up: 2020 2024.

Cole Palmer individual awards and trophies:

1: Individual awards:

Cole Palmer has an astonishing rack of individual awards, such as;

– England’s Men’s Player of the Year: 2023–24

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– London Football Awards Men’s Young Player of the Year: 2024

– Premier League Player of the Year: 2025

– Goal of the season: 2025

– Chelsea Player of the Season: 2023–24

– Chelsea Player’s Player of the Season: 2023–24

– Premier League Player of the Month: April 2024, September 2024

– EPL Goal of the Month: April 2024 August 2024

– Premier League Young Player of the Season: 2023–24

– PFA Fans’ Player of the Year: 2023–24

– PFA Young Player of the Year: 2023–24

– The Athletic Premier League Insiders Signing of the Season: 2023–24

– The APL Young Player of the Season: 2023–24

– The Athletic Premier League Team of the Season: 2023–24

– Premier League Game Changer of the Season: 2023–24

– Fantasy Premier League Team of the Season: 2023–24

– UEFA Europa Conference League Team of the Season: 2024–25

– EA Sports FC Premier League Team of the Season: 2024–25

– FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball: 2025

– FIFA Club World Cup Team of the Tournament: 2025

2: Trophies:

A: Manchester City

– Premier League: 2022–23.

– FA Cup: 2022–23

– UEFA Champions League: 2022–23.

– UEFA Super Cup: 2023.

B: Chelsea

– UEFA Conference League: 2024–25.

– FIFA Club World Cup: 2025.

C: England

– UEFA European Championship runner-up: 2024

Who’s the Better Talent?

Well, that depends on what you’re looking for:

– Saka is more well-rounded, mature, and experienced with defensive and attacking discipline.

– Palmer is flashier in front of goal with instinctive attacking instincts, clinical and precise, fast with the ball, and creative.

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Both are elite prospects with world-class potential.

FAQs

Q: Who has better stats, Saka or Palmer?

A: Bukayo Saka has better stats.

Q: Who is more valuable?

A: Saka, with a higher market value and longer track record.

Q: Will Palmer surpass Saka?

A: Time will tell. Palmer’s upward trajectory is impressive, but Saka’s consistency is unmatched.

Conclusion

The Saka vs Palmer debate is one fans will enjoy for years, as they are national teammates but club rivals. While Palmer may have had the flashier season last season’s statistically, Saka’s impact at Arsenal and overall value remains undeniable.

As they both mature, the Premier League is in for a thrilling rivalry.

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Biography & Networth

Bukayo Saka Biography: Age, Stats, Religion,and Girlfriend (2025)

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Bukayo Saka Biography: Age, Stats, Religion, Market Value, and Girlfriend (2025).

Bukayo Saka is one of England’s brightest young stars, known for his skill, flair, speed, and intelligence on the field. Through Bukayo Saka biography, we learn about his time at Arsenal’s academy to becoming a Three Lions regular, Saka’s journey is one that has inspired millions.

Bukayo Saka biography image

 

As of 2025, fans all over the world are asking about Bukayo Saka biography, and several questions like: How old is Bukayo Saka? What are his stats and career goals? What’s his religion and market value this year? Is he in a relationship?

All these, we will answer and explore in this article.

How old is Bukayo Saka?

Bukayo Saka was born on September 5, 2001, in Ealing, London. That makes him 23 years old as of 2025. Despite his young age, Saka has achieved what many young footballers dream of—being a key player for both club and country.

What are Bukayo Saka’s stats in 2025?

As of the 2024/2025 season, Saka’s stats for both club and country continue to impress both fans and analysts: These stats are gotten from transfermrkt.

– Appearances: 49 (all competitions: 37 for Arsenal, 12 for England)
– Goals: 13
– Assists: 15

Playing primarily as a right winger for Arsenal, Saka combines his playmaking skills with his clinical finishing ability, making him one of the Premier League’s most complete attackers.

How many goals has Bukayo Saka scored in his career?

By 2025, Saka has racked up 88 senior goals and assists for both club and country:

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– Arsenal (All competitions, 288 appearances): 76 goals, 80 assists.
– England: 12 goals, 8 assists in 44 appearances.

He is currently rising through the ranks of Arsenal’s all-time goal scorers. Considering he’s just 23, the numbers suggest he could break several records in the coming years.

What is Bukayo Saka’s religion?

Bukayo Saka is a devout Christian. He has openly spoken about his faith on multiple occasions, often giving glory to God after matches. He’s known for his humility, discipline, and values, which many attribute to his strong religious background and Nigerian upbringing.

What is Bukayo Saka’s market value in 2025?

Saka’s market value has skyrocketed over the last two seasons. According to Transfermarkt and other valuation platforms:

– Estimated Market Value (2025): €126 million – €130 milliom.
– This places him among the top 10 most valuable players in the world.

Arsenal sees him as a long-term asset, and it’s no surprise he’s one of the most sought-after wingers globally with Liverpool eyeing him as a replacement for the aging Mohammed Salah.

Who is Bukayo Saka’s girlfriend?

Bukayo Saka is reportedly in a long-term relationship with Tolami Benson, a private individual with minimal public appearances. The couple has been linked since 2020, although they’ve kept their relationship largely out of the public eye.

Fans respect Saka for maintaining a level of privacy when it comes to his personal life, focusing more on his footballing journey.

Bukayo Saka Biography: Early Life and Background

Bukayo Ayoyinka T.M. Saka was born to Nigerian parents who emigrated to the UK. He attended Greenford High School, where he excelled academically while playing youth football. Saka joined Arsenal’s Hale End Academy at age 7 and quickly rose through the ranks due to his intelligence and discipline.

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Club Career Journey

Saka made his senior debut for Arsenal playing as a left back in November 2018. Since then, he has:

– Become a regular starter under managers Unai Emery and Mikel Arteta.
– Helped Arsenal win the FA Cup (2020) and Community Shield.
– Played a crucial role in their Champions League return and title race campaigns.
– Worn the famous No. 7 shirt with pride.

His versatility allows him to play as a winger, wing-back, or attacking midfielder, depending on the team’s needs.

International Career with England

Saka made his debut for the England national team on October 8, 2020. Since then, he has:

– Scored 12 goals for the national team
– Represented England at EURO 2020, FIFA World Cup 2022, and EURO 2024.

– Become one of Gareth Southgate’s most trusted attackers

FAQs About Bukayo Saka

Q: What is Bukayo Saka’s full name?
A: Bukayo Ayoyinka Temidayo Saka.

Q: Is Bukayo Saka Yoruba?
A: Yes, he is of Yoruba descent from Nigeria.

Q: What position does Saka play?
A: Right winger, but he can also play left wing or wing-back.

Q: What is Saka’s jersey number?
A: He wears No. 7 for Arsenal and No. 17 for England.

Conclusion

Bukayo Saka biography entails his journey from Hale End to world football stardom, and it is a story of talent, discipline, and resilience. He is often compared with the likes of Eden Hazard, Cole Palmer, and Thierry Henry.

At just 23, he’s already a role model for millions of fans and etching his name amongst the greats in Arsenal’s history.It clearly indicates that the sky is his starting point. Keep watching him—his best years are still ahead.

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Do you think he would remain at Arsenal forever or eventually move to Liverpool as Mohammed Salah’s replacement?

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