Argentina's Title Defence: Why is Di Maria Sitting Out?

Argentina will begin its title defence when it takes on Algeria in its FIFA World Cup 2026 opener at the Kansas City Stadium on Tuesday.

Talisman Lionel Messi made history as the first player to feature in six editions of the tournament.

Only twice has a country defended its World Cup title: Italy in 1938 and Brazil in 1962, and Argentina will be looking to become the third under the guidance of manager Lionel Scaloni.

But he will have to do it with one of his most vital players out of action.

Angel Di Maria has been a vital player for Argentina since his debut in 2008. He has made 145 appearances for Argentina, recording 31 goals and 32 assists in that time.

After years of heartbreak, including the 2014 World Cup and the 2015 and 2016 Copa America, Di Maria's wait for a senior title with Argentina ended in 2021 when Argentina lifted the continental trophy.

The following year, he bagged another goal in the FIFA World Cup 2022 final and was contemplating retirement before deciding to stay for the 2024 Copa America.

And as it turns out, he ended up winning yet another title, following which he pulled the curtains down on an illustrious career.