Argentine football club Rosario Central has been crowned the country’s annual champion, providing returning star Ángel Di María with a swift and unexpected fulfillment of his dream to win a title with his boyhood club.
Di María, who rejoined Central this year, had stated in an ESPN interview on Wednesday that he returned specifically to become a champion, not to retire. Less than 24 hours later, the club was officially recognized as the best team of the year based on a seasonal points table.
This annual championship, based on points accumulated throughout the year, was not initially included in the previously established 2025 regulations for Argentine football, which focused solely on the Apertura, Clausura tournaments, and a Champions Trophy.
The Professional League formally recognized Rosario Central on Thursday for accumulating 66 points, securing 18 wins, 12 draws, and only two losses throughout the year against Boca Juniors and Independiente.
The trophy was received at the League’s headquarters in Buenos Aires by Di María, goalkeeper Jorge Broun, coach Ariel Holan, and club president Gonzalo Belloso.
CENTRAL LEAGUE CHAMPIONS 2025! WE ARE THE BEST TEAM OF THE YEAR! ?????? pic.twitter.com/7Rb1wcKZ3
— Rosario Central (@RosarioCentral) November 20, 2025
President Belloso confirmed that the reintroduction of the annual championship had been “a plan that dates back several years.” He described the recognition as “super deserved” given the club’s consistent performance, leading the table from the first to the last matchday.
He expressed gratitude to league officials, including President Claudio Tapia and Treasurer Pablo Toviggino, as well as Argentinos Juniors and other committee members, for what he called a “surprise.”
Coach Ariel Holan also thanked Tapia, Toviggino, and all club presidents who supported the decision to acknowledge the title.
This marks Rosario Central’s 13th title in its history. The recognition occurs while the Clausura tournament is still underway and playoff competitions are yet to begin to decide the overall league champion.