Di Maria's Assists for Benfica: A Look Back on His Time in Lisbon

### Di Maria's Assists for Benfica: A Look Back on His Time in Lisbon

As a former midfielder with the Portuguese club Benfica, Di Maria was known for his versatility and ability to play both as a left-back and a central defender. Born in Portugal but raised in England, he made his debut at the age of 15 for the English Premier League side Arsenal.

His time in Lisbon was marked by numerous goals and assists that helped the team win several titles and qualify for the UEFA Champions League. He became one of the most influential players in the history of the Portuguese league, playing crucial roles throughout his career.

## Early Years

Di Maria started his career in Portugal at the age of 15 when he joined Arsenal. After impressing with his skills and attitude, he was offered a contract to join the English Premier League side Manchester United in January 2006. However, due to a disagreement with the club’s management, he decided to return home to Portugal to pursue his football career.

In his first season back in Portugal, Di Maria scored 8 goals in 27 appearances, which helped Benfica reach the Portuguese Cup final. Despite this success, he faced criticism from fans who were concerned about his lack of experience and the club's struggles during the 2007-2008 season.

## The Transition to Central Defender

In the summer of 2008, Di Maria moved to FC Porto, where he continued to showcase his abilities as a central defender. He played a pivotal role in helping Porto win the Portuguese Championship and the UEFA Champions League, winning the latter trophy in the 2009/2010 campaign.

During his time at Porto, Di Maria earned a reputation as a player who could score goals and provide strong defensive support. His performances during matches against top European clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona were praised, particularly for his contribution to the team's success.

## The Rise to the Peak of his Career

After his stint at Porto, Di Maria returned to Benfica in 2014. With his consistent performances and contributions to the team, he established himself as a key figure in the midfield. In 2016, he helped the team achieve its highest-ever domestic title (the Primeira Liga) since it was renamed from Primeira Liga in 2013.

Throughout his time in Benfica, Di Maria has been a vital part of the team's success. His contributions have not only helped them win titles but also contributed to their international profile. His impact on the team is evident in the many assists and goals he has scored throughout his career.

## Future Opportunities

With Benfica now competing in Europe's top leagues, Di Maria is expected to continue making significant contributions to the club's development. As he enters his late 30s, he will undoubtedly be a valuable asset to the team, especially given the opportunities presented by the current global climate.

In conclusion, Di Maria's journey through the Portuguese and European football scene has been remarkable. From his early days in Portugal to his recent achievements in Benfica, his legacy continues to inspire young players and fans alike. His contributions to the team's success are testament to his talent and dedication, and we can expect more impressive performances in the future.

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