Argentinian flag on the back, Angel Di Maria experienced a very moving post-match family experience. Like the whole evening of success against Metz (5-0) where, for his last match with Paris after seven seasons in the capital, he scored a goal before going out past the guard of honor formed by his partners.
In the mixed zone, hands behind his back, the club’s top scorer had dried his tears when commenting on this very special moment. “I spent seven incredible, magnificent, unforgettable seasons,” he breathes. Inevitably touched by the multiple expressions of affection from the supporters, he highlights the tribute paid by the ultras behind the Auteuil stand. “If they gave me the same party as against Dortmund, it’s because I did things well, I showed that I had worked hard to get titles. This affection warms my heart very much and makes me happy.”
Scoring for his last night will remain a highlight. “I told Mister (Editor’s note: Pochettino) that I would score and that I would then go out but hey if I hadn’t scored I would have gone out too! But I believe that this goal gives me peace and emotion for my last hours here. There was what happened with Kylian (Mbappé). Victory… It’s an unforgettable night. »
“The club knew that I wanted to stay one more year”
An Italian colleague then calls out to him: “Are you going to Juve? Di Maria pretends to have heard badly: “huh? The repeated question makes him burst out laughing. “No, no, no, I’m quiet,” he said. I will spend time with my family. And I’ll see what’s best for my family. The most important thing is that. »
Despite everything, it may be time for regrets for him. Did he understand PSG’s decision not to activate the option of an additional year? “The club knew I wanted to stay for another year,” he replies. I wanted to win the Champions League here. We were close reaching the final. We did not succeed. That’s my only regret here. But I know that the guys will continue on the same path to try to win it. They have the talent for that. We must respect the position of PSG. It’s like that. »
Finally comes the time to talk about the extension of Mbappé. “I’m happy for him,” he said. It was the right choice to stay here. It’s a big club. Kylian is nothing short of reaching 200 goals and making history. It’s a perfect decision. »
We ask him a few words in French. He smiles but gives up: “I understand it but it’s too difficult! he slips before leaving, hands behind his back and a smile on his lips. Elegant like the artist he has always been and to whom the Park wanted to say thank you this Saturday.