Di María Leaves Playing Future in Doubt After Rosario Central Exit From Libertadores

Overview

• Rosario Central were eliminated from the Copa Libertadores after a 1-0 second‑leg loss to Corinthians that featured a Corinthians red card early in the second half and a decisive late goal, coverage published August 21, 2026 confirmed.
• Di María apologised to supporters for missed chances and said he is ‘broken’ by the result, adding he now needs time to think about whether to continue his professional career.
• The forward, 38, renewed his Rosario Central contract in June and is legally tied to the club until June 2027, so any retirement would take place while he remains under that deal.
• Since returning to his boyhood club in 2025 after 18 years in Europe, Di María has played 43 matches for Rosario Central, scoring 14 goals, supplying seven assists and helping win the 2025 Liga Profesional.
• His decision could shape Rosario Central’s short‑term plans and fan expectations, so the key next steps to watch are how long Di María takes to announce his choice and whether the club or player reveal a formal retirement timeline.