# Di Maria's Season Rating: A Look Back at His Time with Benfica
## Introduction
Diego Maradona, known as "El Pibe de Oro," is one of the most celebrated footballers in history. His time at Benfica was a significant chapter in his illustrious career, marked by numerous goals and accolades. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Di Maria's season rating during his tenure with the Portuguese club.
## The Early Years
Before joining Benfica, Diego Maradona had already established himself as one of the best players in South American football. He played for several clubs, including Boca Juniors, Napoli, and Inter Milan, before making his mark at Benfica. During this period, he was known for his dribbling skills, creativity, and ability to score from distance.
## Transitioning to Benfica
When Maradona signed for Benfica in 2017, it marked the beginning of a new era in his career. Under the guidance of manager Jorge Jesus, Maradona quickly adapted to the style of play at the Estádio da Luz. The club's philosophy focused on attacking football, and Maradona embraced it fully.
## Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
### Goals
During his time at Benfica,La Liga Frontline Maradona scored 26 goals in 54 matches. This included 19 league goals, which were crucial in helping Benfica secure their place in the Champions League.
### Assists
Maradona provided 18 assists throughout his tenure, contributing significantly to his team's offensive success. His vision and passing abilities allowed him to create opportunities for other players, often leading to goal-scoring chances.
### Goal Contribution Rate (GCR)
The GCR measures the ratio of goals scored to total shots taken. Maradona's GCR stood at 49%, indicating that he contributed effectively to scoring goals while also creating opportunities for others.
### Yellow Cards
Maradona received 10 yellow cards during his time at Benfica. While not uncommon for top-level players, his usage of these cards suggests that he sometimes pushed the boundaries of acceptable behavior on the pitch.
### Red Cards
Despite receiving only one red card, Maradona's performance was often criticized for its intensity. His tendency to push the pace and challenge defenders can be seen as both a strength and a weakness, depending on the context.
## Impact on the Team
Maradona's presence at Benfica had a profound impact on the team's overall performance. His leadership and tactical acumen helped guide Benfica towards a successful campaign. The club finished fourth in the Portuguese Primeira Liga and qualified for the UEFA Europa League.
## Challenges and Controversies
While Maradona delivered impressive performances, his time at Benfica was not without controversy. Some fans and critics have raised concerns about his attitude towards opponents and the tactics employed by the club. However, many supporters believe that his contribution to the team's success outweighed any negative aspects.
## Conclusion
Diego Maradona's time at Benfica was undoubtedly a highlight of his career. Despite some challenges, his contributions to the team's success were significant. His skillful play, creative instincts, and goal-scoring abilities cemented his legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time. As we look back on his time with Benfica, we can appreciate the impact he had on the club and the sport as a whole.