Liverpool winger Luis Diaz’s recent performances have come under scrutiny from sections of the fanbase.
While the Colombian international is continually picked to start the Reds’ most important games by manager Jurgen Klopp, he has not scored or provided an assist in the Premier League since the 3-1 win over Bournemouth on August 19th.
That barren spell has prompted debate on whether Diaz deserves to keep his place in the starting lineup with fans on X pretty much split down the middle:
Significant downgrade on peak Mane if we’re honest.
— Bitcoin Bull 🟠 ∞/21M (@BITCOIN_OR_HFSP) October 9, 2023
he is the best winger in prem lg….always dangerous fast smart….lucky to have him
— Ardi Hoda (@ardijon4466) October 9, 2023
He is selfish. Bench him
— Jonathan Olasupo Olajide (@JonaOlajide) October 10, 2023
Boss player
— Jonjo Moran (@jonjomoran) October 10, 2023
He's not been the same since the injury. Diaz didn't have a problem beating players 1v1. Didn't have an issue with the end product. I think his confidence went with the injury. Somebody must bring back his confidence.
— Mokgalaka (@MokgalakaLemba) October 9, 2023
I really like him. He injects dribbling and pace to our attack. He is a little unpredictable and his final ball/decision isn’t always great but he is a super part of the attacking options at the club.
— Alan Oliver (@Alan_Oliver) October 9, 2023
Exciting player to watch, but hasn’t been it this season. Can’t beat anyone on a 1v1 dribble
— Bails (@BailsFlowerr) October 10, 2023
Diaz is a mercurial talent
The 26-year-old is one of those players who can create something out of nothing, and there is no doubting his ability.
However, Diaz is far more of an individual than his predecessor Sadio Mane. He likes to carry the ball long distances, and he does lack finesse when linking up with his teammates.
Liverpool’s front three is struggling to gel
Although Klopp has settled on his preferred front three of Diaz, Darwin Nunez and Mo Salah, there hasn’t been a great deal of chemistry between them so far.
Nunez and Salah link up well, but neither have the same connection with Diaz. That could still change but it is hard not to feel that there is something missing. It’s certainly not a fluid as it was once with Mane, Firmino and Salah.
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