# Di María's Minutes at Benfica: A Statistical Breakdown
Diego Maradona, known as "The Great One," had his own unique style on the pitch. However, one aspect that stands out is his ability to score from difficult positions and create chances for teammates. This was particularly evident during his time at Benfica in the early 2000s.
## Career Highlights at Benfica
At Benfica, Di María played under manager José Mourinho, who emphasized tactical discipline and physicality. Under these conditions, Maradona found himself in situations where he needed to work harder than ever before to find success.
### The Art of the Pass
One of the most remarkable aspects of Di María's contributions to Benfica was his passing accuracy. He consistently found spaces behind opposing defenders with precision, which allowed his team to maintain possession and progress through midfield. This skill was crucial in creating opportunities for both goals and assists.
### Creating Goals
Maradona also excelled at scoring goals, often finding the back of the net despite being isolated or coming off the bench. His ability to take advantage of poor positioning or missed passes led to numerous memorable moments throughout his career at Benfica.
### Team Dynamics
His impact extended beyond just individual performances. Di María was adept at building relationships within the squad, encouraging teamwork and unity. This environment fostered a sense of camaraderie among players,Ligue 1 Express which translated into better collective performance.
## Statistical Analysis
To quantify his effectiveness, we can look at some key statistics:
- **Goalscoring**: Over the course of his tenure at Benfica, Di María scored 18 goals.
- **Assists**: He provided 45 assists, contributing significantly to team victories through precise ball distribution.
- **Minutes Played**: During his time at Benfica, he played a total of 697 minutes across all competitions (including domestic league, European tournaments, and international matches).
These numbers paint a picture of Di María's importance not only as a player but also as a leader and teammate. His ability to adapt to different playing styles and environments demonstrated his versatility and adaptability, qualities that made him a valuable asset to any team.
In conclusion, Diego Maradona's role at Benfica wasn't merely about scoring goals; it was about leading and inspiring his teammates to perform at their best. His statistical breakdown reflects this multifaceted approach to football, making him one of the most influential figures in Benfica’s history.