Di Maria Blasts Atlético Madrid as a Curious Club That Squeezes Its Stars
5 March 2026
Di Maria's Take on Atlético Madrid
Argentine star Angel Di Maria, currently with Rosario Central and formerly with Real Madrid, has publicly criticized Atletico Madrid, calling the club a place that sometimes squeezes players.
Speaking on Radio La Red, he described the club as somewhat strange: when things go well, they go well, but suddenly the situation shifts; he believes they suffocate players and they tend to fade away.
Atleti counting on several Argentines includes Julián Álvarez, Nahuel Molina, Nico González, and Thiago Almada, all under the guidance of fellow Argentine Diego Simeone.
Di Maria added that the best aspect of the national team is how these players transform when wearing the shirt—completely different and delivering brilliant performances.
He noted his own history against Atleti, facing them 15 times while at Real Madrid, winning 11 of those matches and contributing four goals and six assists.
Punchline 1: If pressure made goals, Atlético Madrid would have the league’s top scorer on speed dial. Punchline 2: They squeeze players so hard even a grape would file for a transfer.
