Dr Barter: Liverpool’s Diaz has moved from being a ‘street baller’ to a more refined, tactical player | OneFootball

Luis Diaz’s Remarkable Transformation: Statistical Analysis of His Liverpool Evolution

Luis Diaz’s impact at Liverpool has been nothing short of transformative, particularly when considering his recent performances. During the latest episode of the Under Pressure podcast from Anfield Index, contributors Dan Kennett, Dr. Phil Barter and Hamzah Khalique-Loonat delved deep into the statistical improvements of Diaz, shining a light on his growth as a key figure in Liverpool’s attacking line. Their analysis revealed the Colombian’s adaptation to a more productive role within the team, supported by striking statistics.

Diaz’s Scoring Efficiency: Numbers Speak Volumes

Dan Kennett opened the conversation with a staggering stat: “Luis Diaz has already netted five Premier League goals this season, reaching that milestone by the 21st of September.” In comparison, Diaz only managed to hit five goals by February of the previous season. Kennett pointed out that this rapid scoring improvement has come from just 13 shots, which adds up to an impressive conversion rate of 5 goals from 2.5 xG (expected goals). While such an over-performance may not be sustainable, it highlights Diaz’s newfound efficiency in front of goal.

Hamzah Khalique-Loonat emphasized how Diaz’s shot positioning has played a crucial role in this transformation. “Diaz has stopped shooting from wide angles and far out,” Hamzah noted, “and now he’s taking more central shots within the width of the six-yard box.” This change in approach has undoubtedly contributed to his increased goal tally, with four of his shots coming from inside the six-yard area this season. These are the high-quality opportunities Diaz has been increasingly capitalizing on.

Adjustments in Diaz’s Role and Playstyle

One of the critical points raised by Dr. Phil Barter was the strategic adjustments Diaz has made within Liverpool’s system. Dr. Barter explained, “He’s no longer drifting wide and cutting in as much. Now, his role is more defined – receiving the ball further up the pitch and maintaining a stronger presence in the box.” This shift in positioning allows Diaz to take advantage of more dangerous scoring opportunities, as he remains closer to goal throughout the match.

Statistically, Diaz’s overall contribution has also improved in other areas. According to Dr. Barter, “Diaz’s pass accuracy in the final third is at an astonishing 93.8%, and his progressive carries in the final third are dominant. He’s not just scoring but also helping create better attacking movements.” His newfound discipline in positioning and ball control is evident, as Diaz continues to balance his attacking prowess with tactical discipline.

Photo: @LFC

Diaz’s Role in Liverpool’s High-Press System

Hamzah also drew attention to Diaz’s work rate, particularly his role in Liverpool’s pressing system. “Diaz has become a key part of Klopp’s high-energy pressing style,” Hamzah commented, “with his ability to retrieve the ball in high areas and turn over possession rapidly.” This attribute makes Diaz not just a goal scorer but also a critical component in disrupting opponents’ buildup play.

The podcast delved into Diaz’s increased contribution in pressing statistics, with Hamzah citing, “In Liverpool’s dominant wins this season, Diaz has been instrumental in forcing opposition errors, retrieving the ball high up the pitch, and transitioning quickly into attack.” This improvement in his off-the-ball work is another dimension of his growing influence at Anfield.

Luis Diaz’s Performance Metrics – Last Three Seasons

Diaz and the Left-Hand Side: Tactical Evolution

The shift in Diaz’s role has also been complemented by Liverpool’s tactical adjustments, specifically in how they utilize the left-hand side of the pitch. Dr. Barter noted, “Liverpool are increasingly dominant in the left half-space, with Diaz making more inward runs and Robertson supporting him with overlapping movements.” These patterns of play have resulted in a more dynamic and unpredictable attacking unit, with Diaz at the heart of it.

This season, the left side of Liverpool’s attack has been the most productive, as the podcast panel pointed out: “Diaz’s involvement in Liverpool’s buildup from the left half-space has been key, and his one-two combinations with teammates have led to high-quality chances.” This collaborative effort on the left has also allowed for better synchronization between Diaz and his teammates, particularly with Mohamed Salah on the opposite flank, who often pulls defenders away, freeing up space for Diaz to exploit.

The Future For Luis Diaz

Looking ahead, one of the central discussions in the Under Pressure podcast was whether Diaz could sustain his current form. While his conversion rate suggests he is slightly overperforming his xG, Kennett, Dr. Barter, and Hamzah agreed that his tactical evolution and improved positioning could help him maintain a high level of output throughout the season.

Dr. Barter concluded with an optimistic take: “Diaz has moved from being a ‘street baller’ to a more refined, tactical player. With the changes to his role, there’s no reason why he can’t continue to contribute heavily in terms of goals and assists.” His improved decision-making in front of goal, combined with his off-the-ball work, makes Diaz a crucial figure in Liverpool’s ongoing campaign.