**Di María's Goals in Benfica: A Statistical Overview**
In the illustrious history of Portuguese football, there is no player who has captured hearts and captivated fans like Lionel Messi. However, it's worth noting that before becoming one of the world's greatest players, Di María was instrumental in shaping his future at one of the most iconic clubs in European football - Benfica.
### Early Years and Benfica Career
Di María began his career with Benfica in 2010, aged just 16 years old. The club had been searching for a young talent to replace their departed star, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Di María met those expectations from day one. His performances were impressive, but it wasn't until he joined the first team in 2014 that he truly made a mark on the scene.
### Goals in Benfica
Throughout his time at Benfica, Di María has established himself as a prolific scorer. As of the end of 2023, he has scored 157 goals in 299 appearances across all competitions. This includes 88 goals in La Liga (Spain), 24 goals in Serie A (Italy), 20 goals in the UEFA Champions League, and numerous other league appearances.
### Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- **Goal-to-Shot Ratio**: Di María's goal-to-shot ratio stands at 1.25, which means he scores a goal every 1.25 shots taken.
- **Assists per Goal**: He has provided assists in 30% of his goals, indicating his ability to create opportunities for others.
- **Average Age at Goal**: At the time of scoring each goal, Di María averaged 22.2 years old, making him a valuable asset to any team looking to build depth and longevity.
### Impact on Benfica
Di María's presence at Benfica has not only contributed to the club's success but also to the growth of Portuguese football. His arrival helped solidify the club's position in European football, particularly in La Liga, where he played for several seasons after joining.
### Challenges and Adaptation
Despite his impressive performance, Di María faced some challenges during his time at Benfica. He struggled with injuries, including a knee injury in 2018 that kept him out of action for a significant period. However, he returned to form quickly and continued to be a key player for the club.
### Conclusion
Di María's journey at Benfica is a testament to his exceptional skills and adaptability. From his early days in the youth ranks to his current status as one of the world's top strikers, his contributions have been invaluable to the club. His 157 goals in 299 appearances are a record-breaking achievement, and his impact on Portuguese football will undoubtedly continue to be felt for many years to come.