Di Maria Explains Why He Rejected ‘Crazy’ Offer to Join Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia

• Angel Di Maria has opened up about the 'crazy' offer he received to move to Saudi Arabia
• The forward was among a few top stars who turned down offers from the oil-rich nation
• Di Maria's choice to stay in Europe appears to have paid off so far as he thrives at Benfica

Angel Di Maria has disclosed the reasons behind his decision to reject lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia and instead return to SL Benfica in the soon-to-end summer transfer window.

Following the conclusion of his stint with Juventus last season, the former Real Madrid winger found himself amid a slew of enticing opportunities to trade European football for the financial rewards of the Saudi Pro League.

Despite a plethora of clubs in the Gulf nation vying for his signature, the Argentine stood out as one of the few esteemed football stars who resisted the allure of the Middle East.

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In explaining his choice, the 36-year-old winger explained that his decision was deeply rooted in his personal attachment to Benfica and his heartfelt commitment to their cause.

"Saudi Arabia also called me; I received a lot of calls," he said as quoted by Football Tweet. The amount of money they offer is amazing, but I chose with my heart. I wanted to come back to Benfica."

This sets Di Maria apart from the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Neymar Junior - who all 'succumbed' to the allure of the Saudi top flight.

His choice to abstain from joining the ranks of players heading to Saudi Arabia seems to have been a wise one, as he has kicked off his second stint with Benfica in spectacular fashion.

The Argentine forward has netted twice in his last three appearances for the Eagles, with one of those goals coming in a match against FC Porto during the Portuguese Super Cup, per Transfermarkt.

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Di Maria among Argentines who snubbed Saudi

Meanwhile, Di Maria isn't the sole Argentine player who has spurned the opportunity to relocate to the oil-rich nation, Sports Brief previously reported.

In fact, a notable contingent of eight members of the 2022 World Cup winning squad have chosen paths that lead to destinations other than Saudi Arabia.

Messi turned down an extraordinary offer of $1.6 billion from Al-Hilal and instead decided to join Inter Miami, where he has thrived since making his debut.