# Di María: Benfica Midfielder Rating Analysis
## Introduction
In the world of football, players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo often stand out as superstars. However, there is another talented midfielder who has been quietly making waves in European football—Lionel Di María. Born on July 12, 1987, in Argentina, Di María has established himself as one of the most versatile and dynamic midfielders in Europe. This article delves into his current performance for Benfica and provides an analysis of his rating.
## Current Performance at Benfica
Di María joined Benfica in 2016 after a successful spell with Barcelona. Since then, he has become a key player for the Portuguese club, contributing significantly to their success. In the 2022-23 season, Di María played 45 matches for Benfica, scoring 12 goals and providing 15 assists. His performances have earned him widespread praise from both fans and peers alike.
## Key Statistics
Let's take a closer look at some of Di María's key statistics:
- **Goals**: He scored 12 goals in 45 appearances, which translates to an average of 0.27 goals per game.
- **Assists**: With 15 assists, Di María is a prolific playmaker, helping to create many opportunities for his teammates.
- **xG (Expected Goals)**: The number of shots that would be converted into goals based on his shooting accuracy. For Di María, xG stands at around 0.77 per match,Campeonato Brasileiro Action indicating that he consistently creates chances for his team.
## Technical Skills
Di María possesses exceptional technical skills, which are essential for his role as a midfielder. Here are some of his standout attributes:
- **Passing**: He is renowned for his accurate long-range passes, often setting up his teammates with crucial assists.
- **Dribbling**: Di María is a master of dribbling, capable of breaking down defenses and creating space for himself and his teammates.
- **Finishing**: While not necessarily his strongest attribute, his finishing ability has improved over time, allowing him to score goals when given the opportunity.
## Mental Game
Football is not just about physical abilities; it also requires mental toughness and discipline. Di María is known for his composed demeanor on the pitch, handling pressure well and staying focused throughout games. His leadership qualities make him a valuable asset to any team, inspiring confidence among his teammates.
## Comparison to Other Midfielders
When compared to other top midfielders, Di María stands out for his versatility and creativity. Unlike some players who specialize in one aspect of the game, Di María excels in multiple roles. This allows him to contribute effectively across different parts of the field, enhancing the overall quality of play.
## Conclusion
Lionel Di María remains one of the most exciting midfielders in European football. His performances for Benfica have been nothing short of remarkable, and his impact on the team cannot be overstated. While his contributions may not always be recognized immediately, Di María’s talent and dedication will undoubtedly lead to greater recognition in the future. As he continues to develop and improve, he will undoubtedly cement his place as a legend in the sport.