### Di Maria's Assist Statistics in Benfica: A Comprehensive Overview
#### Introduction
Fernando Torres, commonly known as Di Maria, is one of the most celebrated Brazilian footballers of all time. He has played for several clubs throughout his career, including Benfica, where he made significant contributions to the team’s success. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Di Maria’s assist statistics during his tenure at Benfica.
#### Early Career and Transition
Di Maria began his professional career with River Plate in Argentina before moving to Manchester United in 2011. His arrival at Benfica in 2015 marked a pivotal point in his career, where he established himself as a key player for the Portuguese giants.
#### Assist Statistics at Benfica
During his time at Benfica, Di Maria accumulated a total of 46 assists across various competitions. These assists were spread over different seasons and tournaments:
- **La Liga**: Di Maria scored 17 assists in La Liga, which was his primary league competition.
- **Copa del Rey**: The Portuguese club hosted the Copa del Rey tournament, and Di Maria contributed 9 assists in this competition.
- **Champions League**: In the Champions League, he delivered 8 assists,Serie A Stadium showcasing his ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates.
- **Supercopa de Portugal**: Di Maria also found the back of the net with 2 assists in the Supercopa de Portugal, further cementing his role as a creative force for Benfica.
#### Impact on Team Performance
Di Maria’s assists significantly contributed to Benfica’s overall performance. His ability to distribute the ball effectively and find open spaces in the defense allowed him to set up goals for his teammates. His assists helped the team secure important victories, including matches against top-tier opponents like Real Madrid and Barcelona.
#### Seasonal Highlights
Throughout his time at Benfica, Di Maria had standout performances that solidified his position as a premier playmaker. Some of his most memorable moments include:
- **2015/16 Season**: Di Maria scored 10 assists in La Liga, helping Benfica to climb into the top four.
- **2016/17 Season**: With the squad struggling, Di Maria stepped up with 11 assists in La Liga, leading to a comeback victory over Real Madrid.
- **2017/18 Season**: Di Maria continued to deliver, contributing 9 assists in La Liga and securing a third-place finish for Benfica.
#### Conclusion
Di Maria’s assist statistics at Benfica demonstrate his exceptional skill as a playmaker. His ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates and contribute to the team’s overall success made him a crucial member of the Benfica squad. While he eventually moved on to other clubs, his impact on the team remains evident through his impressive assist record during his time at Benfica.