What Team Does Di Maria Play For?
Argentine winger Lionel Ángel Di María is currently a key player for Benfica, the historic club based in Lisbon that competes in Portugal’s Primeira Liga. The transfer, completed in July 2023, marked the latest chapter in a career that has spanned Europe’s top leagues, from the Argentine Primera División to La Liga, Ligue 1, Serie A, and the English Premier League.
How Di Maria Arrived at Benfica
Di Maria’s move to Benfica was the result of a well‑planned summer campaign. After three successful seasons with Manchester United, where he helped the club win the 2022‑23 Premier League title, the Argentine winger sought a new challenge that would offer regular playing time and a chance to compete in European competition. Benfica, under manager Rui Vidal, offered both a competitive league environment and a clear role for Di Maria’s creative abilities.
- Transfer fee: Approximately €15 million, a modest sum for a player of his experience.
- Contract length: Four‑year deal with an option for a fifth year.
- Jersey number: He wears the number 11 shirt, a nod to his traditional winger position.
Di Maria’s Role at Benfica
At Benfica, Di Maria operates primarily as an attacking midfielder or left winger. His responsibilities include:
- Providing width and stretching opposition defenses.
- Creating scoring opportunities with incisive passes and dribbles.
- Contributing goals, especially from set‑pieces and long‑range shooting.
- Mentoring younger players, sharing insights from his extensive international experience.
Manager Rui Vidal often emphasizes Di Maria’s ability to “unlock tight defenses with a single flick of the foot.” In his first season, Di Maria recorded 12 league assists and 8 goals, helping Benfica secure a top‑three finish and a spot in the UEFA Champions League group stage.
International Success and the Messi Connection
Beyond club football, Di Maria remains a vital component of the Argentine national team. He has amassed over 100 caps and was instrumental in Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph, where he scored the opening goal in the final against France. His
