Liverpool opted not to seek a direct replacement for Luis Diaz when he bid farewell to Anfield this summer, with the club eager to pave the way for young talent Rio Ngumoha.
Colombian star Diaz decided to end his stint with the Reds during the summer, signing with Bayern Munich and leaving a significant gap in his wake. His impact in the final third was well recognised during his time on Merseyside - a trait he has carried over to the German powerhouse.
Despite splashing out significantly in the summer, Liverpool's decision not to pursue a like-for-like replacement for Diaz, which some have labelled as an error, was driven by a desire to provide Ngumoha with opportunities, according to The Times.
Diaz, who transferred from Porto in 2022, expressed a desire to leave Liverpool around 18 months ago. It was only after a persuasive conversation with club chief Richard Hughes that he decided to stay.
However, with his contract nearing its end, his departure became inevitable.
Liverpool managed to secure a big fee for a player who was 28 - a move the club viewed as sound business. The decision was then made to create a situation where Ngumoha, a recent acquisition from Chelsea, could see a clear path to the first team.
The Reds did contemplate pursuing Lyon's Malick Fofana, who netted 11 goals in 41 appearances for the French side last season. However, the ultimate decision was to look internally for someone to fill the void left by Diaz.
The Colombian has been a standout performer for a Bayern side that have only dropped points in two matches this season.
Rio Ngumoha celebrates after scoring
Rio Ngumoha celebrates after scoring (Image: Getty Images)
In the Champions League, Diaz netted twice to defeat reigning European champions PSG in Paris, contributing to his 11-goal tally this term and making him the team's second-highest scorer behind Harry Kane as they rule the roost in the Bundesliga.
Liverpool, on the other hand, have found the going tough following their summer overhaul, particularly in their attacking line-up. The Reds have suffered nine defeats in their last 12 outings, despite starting the season on a high note.
Included in their five-match winning streak was a thrilling 3-2 victory at Newcastle, sealed by a dramatic stoppage-time winner from Ngumoha.
Arne Slot reflected on that moment, saying: "It was a great goal for a 16-year-old. Rio can finish so well for his age. I did hear someone say afterwards in the dressing room that he would have taken a first touch, but he is so confident! For his age, he is a really good finisher."
Luis Diaz of FC Bayern Munich
Luis Diaz has been banned for three matches (Image: Inaki Esnaola/Getty Images)