Liverpool hosted PSG in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 second-leg, with Luis Diaz named in the starting XI for the Reds.
The Colombian winger has been in excellent form this season, consistently impressing for the Reds. While Mohamed Salah has garnered most of the headlines, breaking records left and right, Diaz’s contributions have been equally important.
However, the match against PSG was a frustrating one for Diaz, as he failed to make a significant impact, being substituted for Cody Gakpo in extra time.
Also read: Liverpool’s Wembley crisis: will injuries derail their EFL Cup dream.
Diaz was criticised in Liverpool defeat
One moment from the match left pundit Stephen Warnock baffled, as Diaz wasted a golden chance to score for Liverpool in the opening half.
Speaking on BBC Sport’s coverage of the game, Warnock didn’t hold back, criticizing the Colombian’s decision-making:
“Wow. What an opportunity. What is Luis Diaz doing? Put your foot through it. Opportunity wasted.”
This miss was particularly surprising considering Diaz’s strong form this season. The winger, who has been consistently praised by Liverpool fans as one of the best left-wingers in the Premier League, is usually clinical in front of goal.
However, his performance against PSG was far from his best, especially in a must-win game for Liverpool.
Barcelona showing interest in the winger
Despite the disappointing result, Diaz has been in excellent form for Liverpool this season and is on track to have his best year yet with the club.
His consistent performances have caught the attention of other top European clubs, including FC Barcelona. The Catalan club are reportedly targeting the winger in the upcoming summer transfer window.
This summer could be a pivotal one for Liverpool, with speculation surrounding the futures of Salah and Darwin Nunez. If both players were to leave, Diaz could be handed a more prominent role in Liverpool’s attack, something the forward would likely embrace.
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Given his strong adaptation to Arne Slot’s attacking system, Liverpool would be wise to retain Diaz and not entertain offers, especially considering his current importance to the team. However, selling Luis Diaz, particularly with Barcelona’s interest, could be a mistake for the Reds.
The Colombian has shown great promise and has proven to be a crucial part of the team’s attacking setup. If Salah and Nunez do leave, Diaz would have an opportunity to step into a more prominent role, and Liverpool would be foolish to let him go.
Diaz has the potential to become a talisman for Liverpool, and given his form this season, it would be in the club’s best interest to retain him moving forward.
Also Read: Arne Slot gives an update on Trent Alexander-Arnold injury against PSG
Sai Akshay
I'm a football enthusiast and an avid writer and someone who lives by the Bill Shankly quote, on a day to day basis.