Supporter who threatened Di Maria sentenced to 7.5 years in prison

A court in Argentina sentenced Sergio Di Vanni, a 45-year-old supporter, to 7.5 years in prison in a case heard in Rosario. Di Vanni had been accused of carrying out actions to intimidate 2024 World Cup champion Angel Di Maria and his family. The goal was to prevent the former Argentina national team player from returning from abroad to his childhood club, Rosario Central.

The threats included gunfire near the gated complex where Di Maria owns property, and a pig's head with a bullet wound left in front of the real estate office run by his sister. The message beside the pig's head also threatened the footballer's daughter. Prosecutors identified 25-year-old Belen Gutierrez as one of the activists. Gutierrez reached a plea agreement in June and received a 3.5-year prison sentence. A third suspect is still in the detention process.

According to the prosecution, the attacks were linked to an internal power struggle among Newell's Old Boys supporter groups. It was alleged that 4 million pesos (2,600 dollars) was paid for the actions. Di Vanni's sentence also covers separate offenses related to his activities within the supporter group.

Following the threats, Di Maria gave up his plan to return to Argentina out of concern for his family's safety. However, he later changed his decision. The 38-year-old footballer spent the last two seasons at Rosario Central and played an important role in the club winning the Argentine championship at the end of 2025.