### Di Maria's Passing Statistics at Benfica: An Analysis of His Performance in the Portuguese League
#### Introduction
Diego Costa Di Maria, born on September 11, 1987, is one of the most versatile and influential players in world football history. He has played for several clubs including Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Real Madrid, and currently plays for Benfica. This article will delve into Di Maria's passing statistics at Benfica, examining his performance in the Portuguese league over the years.
#### Early Career and Transition to Benfica
Di Maria made his professional debut with FC Porto in 2006. He quickly rose through the ranks, making his way to Manchester United where he spent five seasons from 2011-2016. In 2016, he returned to Europe, signing for PSG, where he continued to shine as a key player in their midfield.
In January 2021, Di Maria signed a new contract with Benfica until the end of the 2024 season. This move was seen as a significant return to Portugal, where he had started his career.
#### Passing Statistics at Benfica
At Benfica, Di Maria has been instrumental in the club's success, particularly in the Portuguese league. Here are some key aspects of his passing statistics:
1. **Passing Accuracy**: Di Maria's passing accuracy is consistently high, hovering around 85%. This makes him a reliable option for coaches who rely heavily on possession-based strategies.
2. **Long Distance Passes**: He is known for his ability to make long-distance passes, which have been crucial in creating scoring opportunities. Over the years, he has executed numerous accurate long-range shots that have helped secure victories.
3. **Short Passing Accuracy**: While not as high as his long-distance passing, Di Maria's short-passing accuracy is still commendable. This allows him to maintain control of the ball and create space for his teammates.
4. **Through Balls**: Di Maria is skilled at delivering through balls to open spaces, which has often led to goal-scoring chances. His ability to find teammates in tight areas is a hallmark of his playstyle.
5. **Crosses**: Although not his strongest area, Di Maria can still deliver effective crosses from deep positions, providing another dimension to his game.
#### Analysis of Performance in Portuguese League
Di Maria's performance in the Portuguese league has been remarkable. His versatility and skill have allowed him to adapt to different roles within the team. Here’s how his performance has evolved over time:
- **Early Years (2021-2022)**: Di Maria arrived at Benfica during a period of transition, and his impact was immediate. He contributed significantly to the club's midfield, providing support and assists for his teammates.
- **Mid-Career (2023-present)**: As Benfica has grown stronger under his leadership, Di Maria has become even more central to the team's strategy. His ability to control the tempo of the game and dictate play has been invaluable.
#### Conclusion
Diego Costa Di Maria's passing statistics at Benfica reflect his exceptional skills and adaptability on the pitch. His high passing accuracy, ability to execute long-range shots, and strong short-passing accuracy have made him a valuable asset to any team. As Benfica continues its rise, Di Maria remains a key player, contributing to the club's success both domestically and internationally.