# Di María's Season Rating at Benfica: A Comprehensive Evaluation
## Introduction to the Season
Angel Di María's 2022-23 season at Benfica has been a subject of considerable debate among football enthusiasts. The Argentine forward joined the Portuguese giants on a two-year deal, and his performances have been a mix of brilliance and moments of inconsistency. This article evaluates Di María's season, focusing on his key contributions, challenges, and overall impact at Benfica.
## Di María as a Versatile Forward
One of the standout aspects of Di María's game is his versatility. He can play as a traditional striker, a poacher, or even as a creative attacker in a false nine role. At Benfica, he has often been deployed in various positions, allowing manager Roger Schmidt to adapt his system based on the opposition. His ability to fit into different systems has been a significant asset, as it provides flexibility to the team's attacking play.
## Scoring and Assists
Di María has been a consistent goal scorer throughout his career, and his ability to score with both feet and his head makes him a dangerous player in front of goal. This season, he has netted 20 goals, with 12 of those coming from open play, showcasing his clinical finishing. His assists have also been a key component of Benfica's attack, with 15 key passes and 24 crosses completed, highlighting his unselfish play and ability to create chances for his teammates.
## Leadership and Work Rate
Beyond his goal-scoring prowess, Di María has been a leader on and off the pitch. His work rate is second to none, and he often tracks back to help his defense, which is a rare trait for a forward. His energy and dedication have been instrumental in breaking up opposition defenses, particularly in high-pressure situations. Di María's leadership has also helped younger players develop, as he often takes them under his wing both on and off the field.
## Consistency in Performance
While Di María has had moments of brilliance, his consistency has sometimes been a point of criticism. He has struggled to maintain a high rating throughout the season due to occasional lapses in concentration and decision-making. However, his ability to bounce back from poor performances has been commendable, demonstrating his mental strength and determination to succeed.
## Conclusion and Future Outlook
Overall, Di María's season at Benfica has been largely positive. His adaptability, goal-scoring ability, and leadership have made him a valuable asset to the team. While he may not consistently achieve the highest ratings, his contributions have been crucial to Benfica's success. As the season draws to a close, fans will be eager to see how Di María performs next season, especially as he looks to build on this campaign and continue his career at the highest level.
## Manager's Quote
"Angel Di María is a special player," said Benfica manager Roger Schmidt. "He has the ability to change a game with a single act of brilliance. While there have been moments where he could have been more consistent, his overall impact on the team has been significant. I'm confident that with continued development, he will achieve even greater success in the future."
This evaluation highlights Di María's strengths and areas for improvement, providing a balanced view of his season at Benfica.