João Mário's Assist Statistics at Benfica: A Comprehensive Overview of His Contributions to the Team
# João Mário's Assist Statistics at Benfica: A Comprehensive Overview of His Contributions to the Team
## Introduction
João Mário is widely regarded as one of the most influential midfielders in Benfica's recent history. Known for his creativity, vision, and ability to read the game, João Mário has been a cornerstone for the Lisbon giants, contributing significantly to the team's success through his assist numbers. This article delves into João Mário's assist statistics at Benfica, highlighting his role as a playmaker and how his contributions have impacted the team's performance over the years.
## Season-by-Season Breakdown
João Mário joined Benfica in 2015 and quickly established himself as a key player in the first team. Over the years, his assist numbers have fluctuated, reflecting his evolving role within the team.
- **2015-16 Season**: João Mário made 32 appearances and recorded 6 assists, showcasing his ability to create chances for teammates.
- **2016-17 Season**: He played 29 matches, contributing 10 assists, as Benfica finished third in the Primeira Liga.
- **2017-18 Season**: João Mário had a standout campaign, scoring 17 goals and providing 18 assists, making him one of the most influential players in the league.
- **2018-19 Season**: He continued his impressive form with 14 assists, but his goal-scoring output dipped slightly.
- **2019-20 Season**: João Mário was limited to 19 matches due to injuries, recording 6 assists.
His assist numbers have consistently placed him among the top playmakers in Portugal, and his ability to thread passes through defenses has been a hallmark of his game.
## Comparing João Mário to Peers
When comparing João Mário's assist contributions to other top midfielders in Europe,Primeira Liga Hotspots his numbers are on par with players like Bernardo Silva, Kevin De Bruyne, and İlkay Gündogan. His consistency in creating chances and his ability to adapt to different systems have made him a valuable asset for Benfica.
## Impact on Team Success
João Mário's assists have directly translated into goals, which have been critical in Benfica's victories. For instance, his crosses and through balls have led to crucial goals in decisive matches, including those in the Primeira Liga and Taça de Portugal finals. His ability to break down defenses has allowed his teammates, such as Rúben Dias and Nicolas Guitán, to score vital goals.
## Beyond Assists
While assists are a key metric, João Mário's impact on Benfica goes beyond numbers. His leadership on the field, work rate, and unselfish play have inspired his teammates and made him a fan favorite. He is also a vital link between defense and attack, often tracking back to help out in midfield before springing forward to create chances.
## Conclusion
João Mário's assist statistics at Benfica are a testament to his role as a playmaker and his contributions to the team's success. Over the years, he has consistently delivered in crucial moments, whether it's setting up a teammate for a winning goal or scoring a vital goal himself. As Benfica continues to compete at the highest level, João Mário's ability to influence games remains indispensable. With his contract set to expire in the coming years, fans hope to see him continue to shine on the pitch and lead Benfica to further glory.