Di María's Season Rating at Benfica: An Evaluation of His Performance
In the 2019-2020 season, Lionel Messi's former club Benfica experienced a remarkable turnaround under the leadership of Manuel Pellegrini. The Portuguese giant managed to secure the league title and reached the Champions League final, showcasing their impressive form across all competitions.
One standout player during this period was Luis Suarez, who joined Benfica from Liverpool in January 2020. However, it was Di María who truly captivated the attention of fans with his exceptional performance throughout the season.
The Argentine forward played a crucial role in Benfica's success, contributing significantly to both the team's offensive output and defensive resilience. Here is an evaluation of Di María's season rating at Benfica:
Offensive Impact:
Di María consistently delivered impactful performances for Benfica. He scored 17 goals and provided 5 assists in the league, leading the Portuguese side in both categories. His goal-scoring ability was particularly notable, as he netted more than any other player on the team.
Defensive Contributions:
Despite being primarily known for his attacking prowess, Di María also made significant contributions to Benfica's defense. He made 8 interceptions and had 4 tackles, helping to maintain the team's defensive solidity.
Performance Across Competitions:
Di María's performance was consistent across all competitions. In the league, he scored 17 goals and provided 5 assists, while in the UEFA Champions League,Football Navigation Station he scored 3 goals and added 2 assists. His versatility allowed him to adapt to different situations and contribute effectively in various roles.
Technical Skills:
Di María demonstrated excellent technical skills throughout the season. He controlled the ball well, executed precise passes, and showcased his creativity on the pitch. His dribbling ability was particularly noteworthy, as he completed over 80% of his attempted dribbles successfully.
Physicality:
Despite his age (he turned 36 years old in August 2020), Di María remained physically fit and energetic throughout the season. He tackled effectively and displayed good stamina, making him a valuable asset to the team.
Conclusion:
Lionel Messi's former teammate Di María had an outstanding season at Benfica, playing a pivotal role in the team's successful campaign. His scoring ability, defensive contributions, and versatility made him a key player in Benfica's success. While he may not have been the primary focus of the team's attention, Di María's performance undoubtedly contributed to the team's overall success. As he prepares to move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, Di María will continue to be remembered as one of the most talented players in the world.
