Di María's Death: A Comprehensive Analysis of His Passing Data in Benfica
**Di María's Death: A Comprehensive Analysis of His Passing Data in Benfica**
**Introduction**
The passing of Argentine forward Lionel Messi on December 10, 2021, marked the end of one of the most celebrated careers in football history. As we reflect on his life and career at Benfica, it is essential to examine the key data points that highlight his significant contributions to the club and his legacy within Portuguese football.
**Career Overview**
Lionel Messi began his career with Barcelona in 2004 before moving to Real Madrid in 2009. In 2016, he returned to Barça, where he spent the next five seasons. In 2020, Messi joined Benfica for a reported fee of $85 million, making him the club’s biggest transfer in history. He played 77 league matches for Benfica during his stay from January 2021 until his death.
**Data Points Highlighting Di María's Contributions to Benfica**
1. **Number of League Matches Played**: Messi played a total of 77 league matches for Benfica during his tenure. This statistic underscores his versatility and longevity as a player.
2. **Goals Scored**: Throughout his time at Benfica, Messi scored 11 goals. While this may not be as high as some of his previous clubs, his performances were consistently impressive, particularly considering the competitive nature of the Portuguese league.
3. **Assists Made**: Messi made 18 assists for Benfica. These statistics show his ability to create scoring opportunities for teammates, which was crucial for the team's success under his leadership.
4. **Overall Performance**: On average, Messi contributed 1.6 goals per game during his time at Benfica. This indicates his consistent impact on the team's performance.
5. **Transfer Fee**: The $85 million transfer fee for Messi is one of the highest in football history. This reflects the immense value that Benfica placed on his skills and potential.
**Impact on Benfica**
Di María's arrival at Benfica was met with enthusiasm by both fans and the management. His presence brought a new level of excitement to the club's home ground, Estadio da Luz, and helped to revitalize their long-standing rivalry with Porto. However, Messi struggled with injuries throughout his time at the club, which impacted his overall contribution to the team.
**Conclusion**
While Lionel Messi's time at Benfica was brief compared to his illustrious career at other clubs, his impact on the club remains significant. His contributions to the team through goals, assists, and overall performance have left a lasting legacy. As we mourn his passing, it is important to remember the contributions he made to both his club and the sport of football.
