Angel Di Maria, from Argentina, faces threats from drug gangs in his hometown.

Argentina’s national team forward, Angel Di Maria, encountered a frightening incident at his family residence on the outskirts of Rosario early Monday morning, according to local reports. This occurrence comes amidst a surge of drug-related violence in the city, which is also the hometown of football icon Lionel Messi.

The threat received on Monday echoes a similar one directed at Messi, the Argentine team’s captain, last year. It coincided with Di Maria’s recent expression of desire to conclude his career at his childhood club, Rosario Central, while currently playing for Portuguese giants Benfica.

The message conveyed a chilling warning to Di Maria’s family, cautioning them against returning to Rosario and threatening dire consequences. The reference to provincial governor Maximiliano Pullaro indicates the severity of the threat, emphasizing the ruthless nature of the perpetrators.

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Authorities have yet to ascertain the motive behind these threats, leaving all avenues of investigation open. Despite media speculation, the police have refrained from commenting on the matter.

Reports indicate that a vehicle left a sign containing the threatening message near the gated community where Di Maria resides. However, Di Maria remains resolute and is set to feature in Tuesday’s friendly match against Costa Rica, as confirmed by Argentina’s manager, Lionel Scaloni. The national team has assured Di Maria of their unwavering support during this unsettling time.

Rosario, renowned as one of the world’s major agro-port centers, has unfortunately become a hotspot for violence, primarily due to the presence of drug-trafficking syndicates. These criminal groups exploit the city’s strategic location to facilitate the distribution of illicit drugs across borders.

The previous year saw a similar threat directed at Messi, coupled with an attack on a supermarket owned by his wife’s family. Responding to the escalating situation, the Argentine government has proposed legislation to empower the armed forces to combat drug trafficking and crime in Rosario.

The safety and security of athletes like Di Maria and Messi underscore the broader societal challenges faced by regions grappling with organized crime. As these incidents highlight, the repercussions extend beyond the realm of sports, affecting communities and families on a profound level.