Luis Diaz Shines In Liverpool Shirt
Luis Diaz has been a huge hit since joining Liverpool in January 2022. Already a fan favourite on the Anfield terraces, he looks right at home in Jurgen Klopp’s system.
More than a competent backup, Diaz has took to the Premier League like a duck to water. In fact, it wouldn’t be far fetched to suggest that he is one of the signings of the season.
Embracing his role in Klopp’s rotation system, Diaz has developed an instant rapport with the Reds front three.
In fact, Liverpool now have Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane, Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz at their disposal.
And despite Diaz appearing fifth on that list, that’s not a true reflection of his ability or on his impact. Since arriving at Anfield, he has taken the Premier League by storm.
Many believe that Diaz could improve further next season – and that is a fair assumption. He has been at Liverpool for less than four months and looks a natural at Anfield.
Here, we look at Luis Diaz’s Liverpool career so far and why he looks set to enjoy a long and successful tenure on Merseyside.
Instant Impact
There was next to no period of adjustment required for Luis Diaz as he became a key figure for Liverpool within a matter of weeks.
Just one week after signing his contract, Diaz made his Liverpool debut and was immediately involved as he assisted a goal in a 3-1 victory over Cardiff City.
Less than a fortnight later, Diaz bagged his first goal for the club on just his second Premier League start.
The game was still in the balance when Diaz made it 3-1 against Norwich City and the Anfield crowd went home in jubilant mood after his late effort.
But it isn’t just goals and assists that Diaz has brought to the club. He has a vibrant energy about him and his work ethic is what endeared him to the Anfield crowd.
While not starting every game, Diaz continues to make a positive impact and he was central to Liverpool’s Champions League victory over Benfica.
Having previously played for Porto, Diaz was determined to eliminate his former rivals from the competition and he was influential from start to finish.
Not only did Diaz score to silence the home fans but he also assisted a teammate later to put the game to bed.
It has been a fast start to life at Anfield for Luis Diaz but that was always going to be the case. If you’re going to succeed in Jurgen Klopp’s system, you need to be quick off the mark.
Based on his exploits this season, Liverpool fans will be licking their lips at the prospect of seeing Luis Diaz on a regular basis in 2022/23.
Why Luis Diaz?
When Liverpool announced that they’d signed Luis Diaz on a long term deal, there were plenty of football fans left scratching their heads.
Diaz was a success during his stint at FC Porto but he wasn’t really on the radar of most major European clubs – Liverpool noticed his talent though.
Upon his arrival, Klopp was clearly overjoyed with the signing and he was very positive in his immediate comments to the club’s official website.
“He’s an outstanding player and someone we’ve been tracking for a very long time,” the Reds manager said.
“We believe he has everything needed to fit into our way and adapt to the Premier League, both physically and mentally.
“He’s a player who is hungry for success and knows you have to fight to get what you want. He is a fighter, no doubt. He’s a skillful team player who has always the goal in mind.
“This team deserved to add quality and when we played against Luis earlier this season, we saw what a danger he is, how fast he is and how his mentality was to help his team.
“Luis is a player we believe will make us better now and in the future. He’s the player we really wanted and they’ve made it happen, so I’m very happy.”
It didn’t take long for Luis Diaz to make his mark and the rest of the Premier League soon realised why Klopp was so keen for a deal to be struck in January.
Diogo Jota stats have been the talking point on Merseyside this season but it wouldn’t be a huge shock to see Luis Diaz at the centre of debate this time next year.
Luis Diaz Stats
One of the most technically gifted players in the Premier League, Luis Diaz statistics are very positive. If you’re a Liverpool fan, you’re going to want to see this list…
His impact and influence in the final third is clear for all to see. However, Diaz brings a lot more to the table than just goals and assists.
You can see a list of the most important Luis Diaz Liverpool stats below – if he continues at this rate next season, just think of the numbers he may put up.
Just as a heads up, these statistics are accurate as of May 3rd 2022 and are solely based on Luis Diaz’s performances in the Premier League.
- Goals – 3
- Goals per match – 0.30
- Headed goals – 1
- Goals with right foot – 1
- Goals with left foot – 1
- Shots – 29
- Shots on target – 11
- Shooting accuracy – 38%
- Assists – 2
- Passes – 334
- Passes per match – 33.40
- Big Chances Created – 2
- Crosses – 8
Luis Diaz Defensive Statistics
- Tackles – 6
- Blocked shots – 10
- Interceptions – 3
- Clearances – 2
- Headed Clearance – 1