Di Maria: How Benfica Rated His Season in the Premier League

**Di Maria: How Benfica Rated His Season in the Premier League**

In a season marked by numerous highs and lows, Lionel Messi's former club Benfica delivered an impressive performance in the Premier League. The Portuguese giant finished second in the league standings, securing a respectable position that was not just due to their own performances but also through the contributions of their players.

### Performance Overview

Lionel Messi's departure from Barcelona to Benfica in 2016 brought with it high expectations. However, it was not long before fans began to question his adaptability and the quality of his performances for the Portuguese giants. Despite these initial doubts, Benfica managed to maintain a consistent level of play throughout the season.

The team under manager Fernando Santos showed resilience and tactical flexibility, adapting to various playing styles while maintaining a strong defensive structure. This allowed them to compete effectively against top-tier teams like Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool, often finding themselves in close matches at the end of the season.

### Key Performances

#### Goals and Assists

Benfica scored 48 goals during the campaign, which is a significant number considering they played in the Premier League. Their goal-scoring attack featured several key performers, including Bruno Fernandes, who contributed significantly with both his goals and assists. Di Maria also made an impact, scoring 9 goals and providing 7 assists, showcasing his versatility on the field.

#### Defensive Strength

Benfica's defense was another strength of the team. Under the leadership of goalkeeper Rui Patricio, they conceded only 25 goals, demonstrating exceptional defensive discipline and teamwork. This allowed them to control possession and create opportunities more frequently.

### Managerial Success

Fernando Santos' approach to management was instrumental in Benfica's success. He focused on building a cohesive squad and developing young talent. The team's ability to switch between different formations and styles of play helped them navigate the competitive landscape of the Premier League.

### Challenges and Criticism

Despite their achievements, there were some challenges faced by Benfica. The transfer market was a major source of contention, with questions raised about the value of signing players like Bruno Fernandes and João Cancelo. Additionally, the team struggled with injuries, particularly to key players like Di Maria and Rui Patricio, which affected their overall performance.

### Conclusion

Overall, Benfica's season in the Premier League was characterized by a mix of success and challenges. While they fell short of their expected goals and missed out on a title win, they demonstrated their potential and maintained a solid presence in the competition. The team's resilience and tactical adaptability were evident throughout the season, making their journey to the second place finish a testament to their hard work and determination.

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