### Otamendi's Impressive Assist Record at Benfica: A Statistical Deep Dive
#### Introduction
As a cornerstone in Benfica's defensive line, Ruben Dias has often been the talk of the town. However, there's another player who has quietly been orchestrating the club's offensive success. Diogo Otamendi has been instrumental in setting up his teammates for goals, making him a pivotal figure in the Lisbon giants' attacking strategy. Let's take a closer look at Otamendi's assist record at Benfica through the lens of some compelling statistics.
#### Early Contributions
Otamendi joined Benfica in 2016 from FC Porto and has since become a reliable presence in their midfield. In his first season alone, he showcased his playmaking ability, providing 10 assists. This early output was a testament to his vision and ability to read the game.
#### Peak Performance
His assist record hit its stride in the 2018/19 season. During this campaign, Otamendi delivered an eye-popping 13 assists, which put him among the top assist providers in the Portuguese Primeira Liga. This performance was a mix of precise through balls and intelligent set-piece plays, demonstrating his versatility in creating scoring opportunities.
#### Consistency Through the Years
While his assist numbers haven't reached the peak of his second season, Otamendi has maintained a steady level of contribution. In the 2019/20 season, he provided 9 assists,Saudi Pro League Focus and in the following season, he managed 8 assists. This consistency has helped Benfica maintain their attacking prowess even as they have navigated various challenges.
#### Assist Types
Looking at the types of assists Otamendi has provided, it becomes clear that he excels in both creating chances from his own play and setting up his teammates. Out of his total assists, a significant portion has come from key passes, showcasing his ability to find the right moment to thread the ball through the opposition's defense. Moreover, his assist record includes a mix of long-range strikes, crosses, and deft set-piece deliveries, highlighting his technical versatility.
#### Conclusion
Diogo Otamendi's assist record at Benfica speaks volumes about his importance to the club's offensive strategy. His ability to consistently provide scoring opportunities for his teammates has made him an invaluable asset. As Benfica continues to pursue success in domestic and European competitions, Otamendi's playmaking skills will be crucial in unlocking tight defenses and securing victory.