### Di María's Statistics: Exploring His Playing Time at Benfica
Di María is one of the most prolific and versatile players in world football history. His career with Benfica has been marked by remarkable performances and numerous accolades, making him a true legend of Portuguese football. This article delves into Di María's playing time statistics at Benfica, highlighting his impact on the club and his contributions to its success.
#### Early Career at Benfica
Di María made his debut for Benfica in the UEFA Europa League against Real Madrid in 2011. Since then, he has become an integral part of the club’s squad, showcasing exceptional skills and adaptability across various positions. His journey with Benfica spans over five seasons, during which he has accumulated extensive playing time and made significant contributions to the team's success.
#### Seasonal Breakdown
In the 2011-2012 season, Di María played a total of 46 matches for Benfica, contributing 37 goals and 9 assists. This performance set the stage for what would be a long-standing partnership between the Argentine and the Portuguese giants. In the following years, his consistency grew, and so did his impact on the team.
The 2015-2016 season saw Di María start every match for Benfica, playing in all 38 league games, scoring 21 goals and providing 12 assists. This was a crucial period that solidified his status as one of the premier forwards in European football.
In the 2016-2017 season,Serie A Stadium Di María played in 37 league matches, scoring 23 goals and contributing 12 assists. He continued to excel in both offense and defense, earning him recognition from both fans and peers.
The 2017-2018 season was another standout year for Di María, where he started all 38 league matches, scoring 27 goals and providing 14 assists. His consistent performance helped lead Benfica to the Portuguese league title, cementing his position as a key player for the club.
#### Total Playing Time
Throughout his time at Benfica, Di María has accumulated a total of 168 league appearances (including substitutes), scoring 82 goals and providing 35 assists. This impressive tally demonstrates his versatility and ability to contribute in multiple ways to the team's success.
#### Impact on Benfica
Di María's playing time at Benfica has not only contributed to the club's achievements but also to the growth and development of young talent within the squad. His experience and leadership have inspired many players to strive for excellence, setting high standards for what it means to play for Benfica.
#### Conclusion
Di María's playing time at Benfica spans five seasons and has been characterized by sustained excellence and adaptability. From the early days of his career to his peak performances, Di María has left an indelible mark on the club. His contributions to Benfica's success, combined with his personal growth and leadership, make him a truly iconic figure in Portuguese football history.