# Di María's Goal Statistics at Benfica: A Review of His Career in Portugal
**Introduction**
When Argentinian winger Ángel Di María joined Benfica in 2015, he became one of the most anticipated signings in Portuguese football history. Known for his pace, dribbling ability, and work rate, Di María quickly established himself as a key player for the club. This article reviews Di María's career in Portugal, focusing on his goal contributions and his overall impact at Benfica.
**Di María's Goal Contributions at Benfica**
Di María's time at Benfica was marked by his exceptional goal-scoring ability and his ability to create chances for his teammates. During his two seasons with the club, he scored 34 goals and contributed numerous assists, making him one of the most productive forwards in the Portuguese league during that period.
His first season (2015-16) was particularly memorable. Di María netted 16 goals, including a stunning overhead kick against Porto, and was instrumental in Benfica's run to the Primeira Liga title. His second season (2016-17) saw him score 18 goals,Bundesliga Tracking showcasing his consistency and clinical finishing. Di María's goal-scoring prowess not only helped Benfica secure top-four finishes but also earned him a move to one of Europe's elite clubs, Manchester United.
**Beyond Goals: Di María's Career Impact**
While Di María's goals and assists are undeniably impressive, his impact on Benfica extended far beyond the scoreboard. His leadership on and off the pitch inspired his teammates, and his work ethic set a high standard for the rest of the squad. Di María's ability to perform under pressure and his unselfish play made him a fan favorite.
**Key Stats and Achievements**
- **Goals:** 34
- **Assists:** Over 30
- **Appearances:** Over 70
- **Goal Ratio:** Approximately 0.49 goals per game
These stats highlight Di María's consistency and reliability during his time in Portugal. His ability to adapt to the competitive nature of Portuguese football while maintaining his high-quality performances earned him widespread recognition.
**Leadership and Legacy**
Di María's leadership at Benfica was as important as his goals. He became the backbone of the team, leading by example and uniting the squad during crucial moments. His departure was a significant loss, but his legacy at Benfica remains intact.
**Conclusion**
Ángel Di María's career in Portugal was a success by any measure. His goal contributions, leadership, and influence on and off the pitch left an indelible mark on Benfica. As he continues his career elsewhere, fans of Portuguese football will always remember his time at Benfica as one of the most brilliant chapters in the club's history.