**Di Maria's Benfica Assists: A Record-Breaking Career Journey**
In the world of football, few names have captured the imagination quite like Argentine striker Lionel Messi. However, it was his former teammate and mentor, Brazilian midfielder Gabriel Di Maria, who left an indelible mark on the club he helped transform into one of Europe's most successful and respected teams.
Di Maria, known for his exceptional skills, versatility, and goal-scoring prowess, spent a significant portion of his career at Benfica. His tenure with the Portuguese giants was marked by numerous memorable moments and achievements, including a record-breaking assist count during his time there.
### The Early Years
Di Maria began his journey at Benfica in 2011, joining from Corinthians after impressing the club with his performances in Brazil. Under the guidance of manager Jorge Jesus, Di Maria quickly became an integral part of the team, contributing to their resurgence from relegation in 2012. His ability to adapt to different positions on the field and his knack for finding space made him a valuable asset to the squad.
### The Golden Era
During his four-year stay at Benfica (2011-2015),Bundesliga Vision Di Maria cemented himself as one of the top players in Europe. He not only scored goals but also provided crucial assists that helped propel Benfica to unprecedented success. In this period, Di Maria assisted in 87 goals, which is a remarkable figure and sets a new standard for assists in European football.
One of the standout moments of Di Maria's time at Benfica came in the 2014 UEFA Champions League final against Real Madrid. With just minutes remaining, Di Maria delivered a stunning assist that set up Cristiano Ronaldo to score the winning goal, securing Benfica's first-ever Champions League title.
### The Legacy
After leaving Benfica in 2015, Di Maria continued to play for various clubs, including Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain. While he didn't replicate his assist numbers at other clubs, his impact on the game remained significant. Di Maria's influence extended beyond the pitch, inspiring younger generations of players and helping to shape the future of football.
### Conclusion
Gabriel Di Maria's tenure at Benfica was a testament to his skill, creativity, and leadership. His record-breaking assist count of 87 during his four years at the club remains a benchmark in European football history. While his career has since moved on to other clubs, his legacy at Benfica will continue to be remembered for its impact on the sport and the team he helped mold into champions.
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