On the pitch, Ángel Di María is remembered for his pace, dribbling, creativity and ability to deliver on the biggest occasions. His name is forever linked with Argentina’s triumphs at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the Copa América. But what is the man behind the footballer really like? What shaped his childhood, how did he deal with setbacks, and what does his family life look like?

Those questions are explored inÁngel Di María: Breaking Down the Wall, a three-part Netflix documentary directed by Argentine filmmaker Juan Baldana. It goes beyond match highlights and trophies to explore Di María’s personal journey, family relationships, difficult moments and emotional connection with Argentina.

Released on September 12, 2024, the documentary traces his rise from a modest upbringing in Rosario to becoming a world champion. It is a story of ambition, sacrifice, criticism and ultimately redemption.

The dream that began with 26 footballs

The first episode, titled26 Footballs, takes its name from a remarkable detail from Di María’s childhood. Rosario Central reportedly secured the young player from a local club in exchange for 26 footballs.

Growing up in a family that earned its living selling coal, Di María had a long journey ahead before reaching the top of world football. The episode revisits his early years, the sacrifices made by his family and the determination that helped him pursue his dream.

It offers a glimpse of the young boy behind the celebrated footballer and shows how a modest beginning eventually led to an extraordinary career.

Love, Real Madrid and the difficult years

The second episode,No One Is a Prophet in Their Own Land, focuses on Di María’s European career, particularly his time at Real Madrid.

One memorable story involves his arrival in Spain after moving from Benfica. At the airport, a young woman reportedly handed him a note with her phone number while his girlfriend, Jorgelina Cardoso, was present. Cardoso recalls the incident in the documentary, adding a personal and humorous touch to the story of their relationship.

But life at Real Madrid was not always straightforward. José Mourinho reflects on Di María’s time at the club, revealing aspects of the challenges he faced behind the scenes. The episode also covers his experiences at Manchester United, Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain.

From criticism to becoming a world champion

The final episode,From Coal to Gold, follows Di María’s journey with Argentina. His international career was not always celebrated. He faced criticism over his performances, struggled with injuries and endured the disappointment of missing important finals.

That narrative changed dramatically as he became a key figure in Argentina’s major triumphs, including the 2021 and 2024 Copa América titles and the 2022 World Cup. The documentary revisits his decisive contributions, memorable goals and emotional moments with the national team.

One of the series’ biggest strengths is its collection of interviews. Lionel Messi, Neymar, Sergio Ramos, Emiliano Martínez, Rodrigo De Paul, Carlo Ancelotti and José Mourinho all share memories and perspectives on Di María.

Their accounts reveal more than just a talented footballer. They offer a portrait of a determined teammate, a loyal friend and a man who endured difficult periods before reaching the pinnacle of the sport.

Football fans usually see the goals, celebrations and trophies. The struggles behind those moments, the dressing-room atmosphere and the personal battles are often hidden from view.Breaking Down the Wallattempts to bring those unseen parts of Di María’s life into focus.

It is an engaging watch not only for his supporters but also for anyone interested in the human stories behind football’s biggest stars.

Documentary Details

• Title:Ángel Di María: Breaking Down the Wall (2024)

• Director:Juan Baldana

• Genre:Sports and biographical documentary series

• Episodes:3

• Release date:September 12, 2024

• Platform:Netflix

• Featuring:Ángel Di María, Lionel Messi, Jorgelina Cardoso, Neymar, Sergio Ramos, Emiliano Martínez, Carlo Ancelotti, José Mourinho and others.

• IMDb rating:7.8/10

• Episode runtimes:26 Footballs— 54 minutes;No One Is a Prophet in Their Own Land— 57 minutes;From Coal to Gold— 54 minutes.