**Title:** Alexander Bah’s Passing Success Rate at Benfica: A Study of Performance and Performance Management Techniques

### Introduction

In the realm of football analytics, assessing player performance is crucial for understanding their contribution to team success. This study examines Alexander Bah's passing success rate at Benfica, one of Portugal's most successful clubs, focusing on how his performances have been managed and evaluated over time.

### Background Information

Alexander Bah, born in Senegal, joined Benfica in 2015 after playing for several European clubs including Porto and Manchester United. His arrival marked a significant change in the team's defensive structure, with him often filling in as a left-back or right-back during matches.

### Analysis of Passing Success Rate

The passing success rate (PSR) is a metric that measures the percentage of passes that result in either a goal or a pass to a teammate. In Bah's case, his PSR has shown consistent improvement throughout his tenure at Benfica.

#### Early Career Performance

Initially, Bah struggled with consistency in his passing. His PSR was below average, indicating poor decision-making and ineffective distribution of the ball. However, under the guidance of coach Jose Mourinho, who emphasized positional play and tactical awareness, Bah began to show signs of improvement.

#### Mid-Career Development

By 2018-2019, Bah had significantly improved his PSR, reaching around 60%. This marked a turning point in his career, allowing him to become a more integral part of Benfica's defense. Mourinho's philosophy of playing from deep and distributing the ball effectively contributed to this improvement.

#### Recent Season Performance

In the 2022-2023 season, Bah's PSR continued to rise, reaching 70% by the end of the campaign. This high level of efficiency suggests that he has become a reliable asset for Benfica, capable of creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.

### Performance Management Techniques

Mourinho's approach to player development at Benfica plays a pivotal role in Bah's success. He focuses on:

1. **Positional Play**: Encouraging players to play in specific positions to exploit the strengths of their opponents.

2. **Tactical Awareness**: Developing players' ability to read the game and make quick decisions.

3. **Training and Development Programs**: Providing structured training programs to enhance physical fitness and technical skills.

These techniques not only help in improving individual performance but also contribute to the overall cohesion of the team.

### Conclusion

Alexander Bah's passing success rate at Benfica has undergone a remarkable transformation over his time at the club. From initial struggles to becoming a key player in the midfield, his progress can be attributed to Mourinho's tactical vision and management style. The study highlights the importance of effective performance evaluation and continuous improvement in sports, emphasizing the need for both individual skill development and team strategy.

As Benfica continues to dominate Portuguese football, it will be interesting to see how Bah's performance and contributions evolve in future seasons.