### Di María's Playing Time at Benfica: A Statistical Analysis

#### Introduction

Diego Maradona, often referred to as "El Pibe de Oro," is one of the most iconic players in football history. His career with Benfica has been marked by significant achievements and personal growth. This analysis aims to provide a statistical breakdown of Di María's playing time at the Portuguese club, highlighting his contributions during different periods.

#### Early Career (2004-2011)

During his early days at Benfica, Maradona was primarily a midfielder. He started his tenure in 2004 and played for several years before moving on to other clubs. The following statistics reflect his playing time during this period:

- **Total Matches Played:** 276

- **Goals Scored:** 55

- **Assists Made:** 39

- **Minutes Played per Match:** Approximately 88 minutes

Maradona's early career at Benfica was characterized by his versatility and adaptability. He demonstrated his ability to play both defensively and offensively, contributing significantly to Benfica's midfield play.

#### Midcareer Transition (2012-2016)

In 2012, Maradona made a move to Manchester City, but he returned to Portugal later that year. During his return, he continued to play as a midfielder, albeit with reduced playing time compared to his earlier days at Benfica. The following statistics highlight his performance in this phase:

- **Total Matches Played:** 135

- **Goals Scored:** 12

- **Assists Made:** 14

- **Minutes Played per Match:** Approximately 64 minutes

This transition marked a decline in Maradona's playing time,Football View Network which could be attributed to various factors such as age and the demands of playing at higher levels.

#### Recent Career (2017-Present)

Since returning to Benfica in 2017, Maradona has played predominantly as a striker. His recent performances have seen him contribute more goals than ever before, though his overall playing time has remained relatively consistent. Here are the latest statistics:

- **Total Matches Played:** 31

- **Goals Scored:** 11

- **Assists Made:** 1

- **Minutes Played per Match:** Approximately 92 minutes

Maradona's return to Benfica has been met with great enthusiasm from fans and critics alike, who appreciate his renewed focus on scoring goals. Despite his increased playing time, Maradona remains a key figure in Benfica's lineup.

#### Conclusion

Di María's playing time at Benfica has evolved over the years, reflecting changes in his role and the demands of his position. While his contributions have declined slightly since his peak, his impact on the team has not diminished. Whether as a midfielder or a striker, Maradona continues to leave a lasting legacy at Benfica, proving that his talent transcends the era in which he played.

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