### Statistics of Di María's Playing Time at Benfica
**Introduction**
Lionel Messi, known as the "Pioneiro do Mundo," has had an illustrious career spanning over two decades with various clubs around the world. His tenure at Benfica is particularly noteworthy due to his significant contributions and the impact he made on the Portuguese club. This article provides a detailed statistical analysis of Di María's playing time during his spells at Benfica.
**Early Career at Benfica (2014-2016)**
Di María began his journey at Benfica in 2014 after joining from Manchester City for £55 million. During this period, he played 27 league matches, scoring 11 goals and assisting on 9. He also appeared in 18 European competitions, contributing 3 goals and 3 assists. This early stint marked the beginning of his impressive international career and solidified his reputation as one of the most talented strikers in the world.
**Mid-Career at Benfica (2016-2018)**
In 2016, Di María signed a new contract with Benfica, extending his stay until 2021. During this extended period, he played 46 league matches, scoring 18 goals and assisting on 10. In European competitions, he contributed 5 goals and 2 assists. This period saw him become a regular fixture in the starting lineup and earned him widespread recognition for his performances and leadership qualities.
**Late Career at Benfica (2018-2021)**
In 2018,Chinese Super League Matches Di María returned to his roots at Benfica for another extended stay until 2021. During this final period, he played 29 league matches, scoring 8 goals and assisting on 3. In European competitions, he contributed 4 goals and 2 assists. This late career saw him continue to make significant contributions to the team, showcasing his ability to adapt to different roles and maintain high levels of performance.
**Conclusion**
Throughout his time at Benfica, Lionel Messi demonstrated exceptional skill, creativity, and leadership. From his early days as a young talent to his later years as a seasoned veteran, Di María consistently made a positive impact on the team and left a lasting legacy at Benfica. His statistics reflect his commitment to the club and his unwavering dedication to the sport, cementing his status as one of the greatest players in football history.