According to Argentine media TyC Sports, Ángel Di Maria has confirmed that he will attend Messi's farewell event with the Argentine national team at the Monumental Stadium on the evening of October 6 local time, witnessing Argentina's friendly match against Benin. However, Di Maria explicitly stated that he will not play in the match but will accompany his former teammate as a spectator for his farewell.

After Rosario Central's 1-1 draw with Banfield in the 11th round of the Argentine Spring League, Di Maria was interviewed and spoke about Messi's upcoming national team farewell match.

Di Maria said: "Today I looked at some photos and videos, and seeing him so happy, so calm, knowing that he has given everything, that's what makes us happy. So he should enjoy this moment to the fullest, and we should thank him for a lifetime."

The 38-year-old winger then confirmed that he would personally go to the Monumental Stadium but would not participate in the match.

He said: "I already told him I would go, and I will see him before the match. I will watch him from the sidelines, like all Argentinians, and enjoy this celebration."

Di Maria and Messi's friendship dates back to their time in the Argentine youth national team. Since then, the two have played alongside each other in the senior national team for many years, and Di Maria is the player with the most joint appearances with Messi in Argentine national team history.

Recalling their years of collaboration, Di Maria said: "I know we spent many years together. It was an honor to be coached by Diego Maradona and to play alongside the greatest player in history. And in my opinion, Messi is the greatest player in history."

In addition to their national team careers, Di Maria and Messi also played together for one season at PSG. From August 2021 to July 2022, the two spent every day together at the club, an experience that left a deep impression on Di Maria.

He said: "That year in Paris, I really enjoyed working with him. Being together every day, as opposed to seeing each other for just a few days during national team training, was a completely different experience."

"I had the opportunity to truly be with him day in and day out, sharing the little things in life. What I cherish most is our friendship and the fact that he ultimately won everything with the national team."

Finally, Di Maria also discussed Messi's decision to end his national team career. Although Messi still performed exceptionally well in the most recent World Cup, Di Maria believes his decision should be respected.

Di Maria said: "He can keep playing as long as he wants. But sometimes people have to make decisions. I think the choice he has made now is an excellent one."

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