### Di María's Pass Success Rate at Benfica: An Analysis of His Performance
In the realm of football analytics, one statistic that often garners attention is pass success rate. This metric provides insight into how effective players are at distributing the ball to their teammates during matches. For Argentine forward Lionel Messi, known for his exceptional passing ability, the pass success rate at clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid has been consistently high. However, when it comes to his performance at Benfica, there has been a noticeable drop in his pass success rate.
Benfica, a Portuguese club based in Lisbon, has been a significant part of Messi’s career since joining from Liverpool in 2011. The team has provided him with numerous opportunities to showcase his skills on the field. Despite this, Messi’s pass success rate at Benfica has fallen significantly compared to his performances elsewhere. According to data collected by transfermarkt, Messi’s pass success rate at Benfica was only around 65% in 2021-2022, which is notably lower than his average across other clubs.
This decline in pass success rate can be attributed to several factors:
1. **Age and Physical Decline**: As Messi enters his mid-30s, he may experience physical limitations that affect his ability to maintain the same level of precision and accuracy in his passes. This could include reduced strength, agility, or coordination,Bundesliga Tracking all of which are crucial for maintaining high pass success rates.
2. **Team Dynamics and Playing Style Changes**: At Benfica, Messi might have faced different playing styles and tactical setups compared to his previous clubs. The change in team dynamics could lead to changes in playmaking strategies and patterns, making it more challenging for Messi to find space and create scoring opportunities through accurate passes.
3. **Defensive Pressure**: In certain matches, Benfica might have played under higher defensive pressure, forcing Messi to distribute the ball more frequently and under more crowded conditions. This increased load on his passing ability could contribute to a decrease in pass success rate.
4. **Injury History**: Messi has had a history of injuries, including knee ligament tears and hip issues, which can impact his performance on the pitch. These injuries might have affected his passing ability, leading to a decline in pass success rate over time.
While these factors may explain the drop in Messi’s pass success rate at Benfica, it is important to note that individual player performance is influenced by various external and internal factors. It remains to be seen whether Messi can regain his former levels of passing efficiency as he continues to adapt to new challenges at the club.
In conclusion, while Lionel Messi’s pass success rate at Benfica has dropped significantly compared to his performances elsewhere, it is essential to consider the multifaceted nature of football and the complex interplay between individual skill, team strategy, and environmental factors. As Messi navigates his journey at Benfica, continued improvement in both technical skill and mental preparation will be crucial for his overall performance.