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### Di María's Midfield Rating at Benfica: Evaluating His Impact and Role In the realm of Portuguese football, Di María has become one of the most celebrated midfielders in recent years. His performances for Benfica have not only been impressive but have also contributed significantly to the club's success. This article aims to evaluate Di María's impact and role at Benfica through various metrics and analyses. #### Introduction Di María, known as "El Pibe de Oro," has been a cornerstone of Benfica's midfield since his arrival in 2014. The Argentine international has brought a blend of creativity, vision, and physical presence to the club, making him a key player in their pursuit of European titles. This article delves into how Di María's midfield rating compares to his performance statistics, analyzing his contributions both on and off the pitch. #### Performance Statistics Di María has consistently performed well at Benfica, earning high praise from fans and pundits alike. In terms of goals, he has scored 18 in 2022-2023, showcasing his ability to score crucial goals when needed. Additionally, he has assisted 9 times, indicating that he is capable of creating scoring opportunities for others. His assists per game average (APG) stands at 0.45, which is quite high for a midfielder, suggesting that he often creates chances for his teammates. On the defensive front, Di María has shown excellent ball control and decision-making, contributing to the club's robust defense. He has made 15 interceptions, demonstrating his ability to disrupt opposition play and maintain possession. Furthermore, his tackles have reached 16,Campeonato Brasileiro Glamour highlighting his physicality and determination to protect the team's territory. #### Impact on the Team Di María's impact extends beyond his individual contributions. He is a natural leader on the field, inspiring his teammates with his leadership qualities. His tactical awareness allows him to make split-second decisions, often leading to critical moments in games. For example, his goal-scoring runs against Real Madrid in the Champions League semifinals were pivotal in securing Benfica's place in the final. Di María's versatility also makes him invaluable. He can play in multiple positions, including left wing, attacking midfielder, and even as a central midfielder. This flexibility allows him to adapt to different formations and situations, ensuring that he remains a threat to the opposing team no matter where he plays. #### Comparison to Previous Performances Before joining Benfica, Di María had already established himself as one of the world's best midfielders. However, his performance at the club has taken it to new heights. At Chelsea, where he played before joining Benfica, he was recognized as one of the best players in Europe. The switch to Portugal has allowed him to showcase his talents in a more supportive environment, where he can focus more on his creative role rather than being the focal point of attacks. #### Conclusion Di María's midfield rating at Benfica is undoubtedly high, thanks to his exceptional performance across all facets of the game. His ability to score goals, assist, and disrupt opposition play make him a valuable asset to the club. His impact on the team goes beyond his individual contributions, as he serves as a leader and motivator. As Benfica continues its journey towards European glory, Di María will be a key factor in their success. |
