Ángel Di María is already mapping out his life after football. While he fights to win a title with Rosario Central in the Torneo Clausura, the World Cup champion is quietly moving toward his next professional challenge: becoming a coach and forming a managerial duo with an old ally.

A partnership born on the pitch: Di María and Paredes, headed for the bench

The Rosario native, who will complete his coaching course this year, revealed that his plan is to begin his managerial career alongside Leandro Paredes, now a key figure at Boca Juniors and one of his closest friends in football. Their connection is so natural that they have been discussing the project for a while, refining details and imagining what it would be like to work together on the other side of the touchline.

In an interview with SportsCenter, Di María admitted the idea is well underway: “We’ve talked about it several times. I don’t have much time left as a player, but while he keeps going, I can prepare everything. We’re going to give it a try.”

They have even agreed on their football identity: a 4-3-3 as the base structure, with an offensive, dynamic style built on high pressing, inspired by what both experienced in Europe.

They also made it clear that if the opportunity arises, they want to coach at least once the teams they now represent and consider their own: Rosario Central and Boca. “It’s already been discussed. One spell on each side, if the chance comes and they choose us,” said the former Real Madrid, Benfica, Juventus and PSG player.

The Argentina national team as the ultimate dream

But the dream doesn’t end in domestic football. Di María admitted that he would like to coach the Argentina national team someday. The path taken by Lionel Scaloni, Walter Samuel, Roberto Ayala and Pablo Aimar inspires him: former players who transitioned into coaching roles and found a new way to live their passion. “You see how happy they are. It would be something beautiful if everything works out,” he said.

One last goal before changing roles

For now, Fideo stays focused on the objective he still has as a player: winning a title with Rosario Central, the club where he took his first steps. He insists he didn’t return just to retire, but to compete and chase the trophy he feels he’s missing. “That’s why I came back. Hopefully it happens this year. If not, I’ll keep trying,” he stated.