Angel Di Maria has announced his departure from Juventus just one year after joining from Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer.
Di Maria had been in talks with Juventus to extend his stay in Turin for at least another season, with the club previously keen to retain his services, but those negotiations did not materialise.
The 35-year-old was a vital cog in Massimiliano Allegri’s side this term, notching eight goals and seven assists in 40 appearances across all competitions.
His paltry statistics do not tell the whole story, as the World Cup winner was one of the more consistent figures in the Bianconeri squad.
Di Maria endured a complicated campaign with Juventus riddled with political fiasco and points deduction that ultimately saw them finish seventh in the Serie A rankings.
The former Real Madrid man had hoped to steer his side to Europa League glory, but Allegri’s side fell to a 3-2 aggregate defeat to eventual winners Sevilla in the semi-finals.
Having reached the end of his one-year deal with Juventus, Di Maria took to his Instagram account to announce his departure from the Italian giants.
“I have reached the end of a difficult and complicated stage,” Di Maria wrote. “I leave safe in the knowledge I gave my all for the club to continue winning titles, but it was not possible.
“I leave with a bitter taste at not having succeeded but with the joy of bringing with me many friends in this marvellous locker room that I was part of.
“Thank you to all my teammates for the affection they showed me from the first day, I always felt at home. I salute all the Juventini for their daily affection. A big hug. I will carry you in my heart.”
It is unclear what’s next for Di Maria, especially with the legendary forward in the latter stages of his career.
A move to Saudi Arabia could be on the cards, although there are no offers on the table yet.
