Di María's playing time at Benfica: 50 games, average 2 minutes per game.
# Di María's Impact at Benfica: A Closer Look at His Playing Time
Di María's move to Benfica has been a topic of interest, especially given his limited playing time since his arrival. The Argentine forward has featured in 50 games for the Portuguese giants, but on average, he has only been on the field for 2 minutes per game. This has raised questions about his role and impact at the club.
### His Playing Time: A Low Average
Di María's average of 2 minutes per game is a stark reminder of his limited opportunities under manager Ruben Yunes. Despite his undoubted talent, the 30-year-old has struggled to break into the starting lineup consistently. This has led to speculation about his fitness, tactics, or even his integration into the squad.
### Impact on the Team
Despite his limited minutes, Di María has made significant contributions when he has played. His ability to stretch defenses and create chances out of nothing has been evident in his 50 appearances. He has scored 10 goals and provided 10 assists, showcasing his attacking brain and work rate. His presence has also provided rotational flexibility for Yunes, especially in high-intensity games.
### The Manager's Perspective
Ruben Yunes has explained Di María's limited playing time,Primeira Liga Hotspots stating that the forward is often used as a "super-sub," a player who comes off the bench to make a difference in critical moments. Yunes has praised Di María's professionalism and ability to adapt to the team's style of play, emphasizing that he is a valuable asset despite his sparse starting roles.
### The Bigger Picture
Di María's situation at Benfica reflects the complexities of modern football. With the demands of European competition and the depth of squads, players often need to be at their best to earn regular starts. Di María's ability to impact the game in limited minutes is a testament to his skill and adaptability.
### Conclusion
Di María's 50-game stint at Benfica, with an average of 2 minutes per game, is a unique chapter in his career. While his playing time has been limited, his contributions have been significant. As Benfica pushes for silverware and European success, Di María's role as a key impact player will be crucial. Whether he can transform his situation and secure a more prominent role remains to be seen, but for now, he continues to prove his value to the club.