PSG's Di Maria admits frustration over lack of playing time

Angel Di Maria admitted that the 2017-18 campaign hasn't gone to plan compared to previous seasons, as he's struggled to break into Paris Saint-Germain's starting team.

The Argentine has only started 10 out of 17 Ligue 1 fixtures this season, and did not appear in the starting XI for either of the French side's six group-stage matches in the Champions League.

After scoring during Wednesday's 4-2 win over Strasbourg, Di Maria admitted his frustration as manager Unai Emery has seemingly reduced his role following the summer arrivals of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.

"This season, not as much," Di Maria said when asked if he was happy in Paris. "I would like to play more. However, I am making the most of the minutes that I get to show that I deserve to be a starter."

Spanish outlet Sport, according to Sports Illustrated, reported last month that Di Maria is holding out hope over a potential transfer away from the club when the January window opens. It's thought that he's eager to revive talks of a move to Barcelona after a deal to join the Catalan side last summer collapsed.

Lucas Moura and Hatem Ben Arfa could also be on the move, either in January or next summer, after also slipping down the depth chart.