# Di Maria’s Assists in His Time at Benfica
## Early Career: The Rise and Fall of the Portuguese Forward
In his early career with Benfica, Luka Modric had a remarkable journey from a young player to one of the most respected defenders in the world. From a young age, he was known for his technical skills and ability to score goals, earning him the nickname "The Red Devil."
### Early Development
Modric was born on November 15, 2004, in Lisbon, Portugal. Growing up in the city, he developed a passion for football that would lead him to the attention of both local clubs and European leagues. Despite being only 16 years old when he started his professional career, Modric quickly rose through the ranks, scoring several goals during his time with Benfica.
#### Club Success
At the beginning of his playing career, Modric joined Benfica as a free agent in January 2018. He made his debut for the club in their 2-0 win against FC Porto in the 2018 UEFA Europa League Final. In that match, Modric scored the winning goal, becoming the first player to score in the UEFA Champions League final since Diego Costa in 2009.
After just two seasons with Benfica, Modric signed a new contract in August 2019, extending it until 2023. This move saw him join the club's academy, where he continued to develop his skills and become a key member of the team.
### Post-Benfica Career
While in his prime, Modric had the opportunity to play for several prominent teams in Europe, including Chelsea, Manchester City, and Liverpool. However, his time with Benfica was marked by success and recognition, particularly with his contributions to the club's defensive strategy.
#### Defensive Excellence
One of Modric's greatest achievements came during his tenure at Benfica. He became one of the top defenders in the country, helping the club reach the UEFA Cup Final in 2021. Under Modric's leadership, Benfica won the UEFA Cup, securing their place in the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League.
During this period, Modric also played a crucial role in leading the defense, making numerous tackles and contributing significantly to the team's overall performance. His defensive prowess earned him widespread praise and respect among fans and coaches alike.
### Legacy and Impact
Despite his impressive career with Benfica, Modric has not been without criticism. Some have pointed out that his lack of experience in the league compared to other players could be attributed to his time with the younger generation. However, Modric remains a valuable asset to the club and continues to contribute to its defense.
#### Future Prospects
As Modric enters his senior years, he will likely continue to play a significant role in the Benfica defense. His experiences and performances under his mentorship will undoubtedly serve as valuable lessons for future generations of defenders. As he looks towards the future, Modric is confident that he can continue to make a positive impact on the club and the sport at large.
In conclusion, Luka Modric's time at Benfica stands as a testament to his talent, dedication, and commitment to the sport. Through his development within the club and beyond, he has become one of the most respected defenders in the world, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest forward talents of all time.