Lionel Scaloni hopes Angel Di Maria can retire from international duty “in the best possible way” but did not revals if he will start in Argentina’s Copa America 2024 final against Colombia.
The veteran winger, with 144 caps to his name, is expected to conclude his illustrious career with La Albiceleste after this tournament, where they aim to defend their title. Di Maria has played crucial in Argentina’s recent successes, scoring the decisive goal in the 2021 Copa America final against Brazil and in the 2022 World Cup final victory over France.
At 36, Di Maria remains a key player for Scaloni’s team, featuring in four out of their five matches en route to their sixth Copa final in eight editions. His participation at the Hard Rock Stadium remains uncertain, but Scaloni is committed to ensuring a fitting farewell.
It is unclear if Di Maria will feature at the Hard Rock Stadium but, either way, his head coach wants to give him an ideal send-off.
“We hope that everything goes well and that Angel can retire in the best possible way,” Scaloni told reporters during his pre-match press conference.
“Even though we know it will be his last game, we will always decide first what is best for the team. If he has to play, it’s because he has to play. If we decide not to play him, it’s because we think differently.
“It is a final and every final has its nuances. We will try to play it and win it. Every team that goes to a final knows the flavour of it and what’s at stake.”
Standing in Argentina’s way is Colombia, whose semi-final victory over Uruguay was marred by crowd violence.
CONMEBOL are currently investigating the incident which saw La Celeste players climbing into the stands at the Bank of America Stadium when family members were caught up in violence involving Los Cafetero supporters.
Scaloni empathized with Uruguay boss Marcelo Bielsa, who vehemently defended his players’ actions, and is hopeful there will be no such occurrence during the final.
“We ask the players to set an example, but when something like this happens, no one acts differently,” the Argentina coach said. “I hope it doesn’t happen again. I don’t know if it’s anybody’s fault, but to see your family in a riot or nearby must be desperate.
“I hope the fans have a party [at the final]. I want it with all my heart. Apart from the joy of winning the title, I think it would be a joy for everyone if it ends well.”
