Luis Diaz Reborn: Arne Slot’s Key Role in Revitalising Liverpool’s Forward | OneFootball

Luis Diaz Rebooted: The Making of Liverpool’s New Attacking Force

Luis Diaz’s transformation into Liverpool’s leading scorer this season is a remarkable development that no one could have fully anticipated. The Colombian winger, signed for £50 million from Porto in January 2022, has always been a dynamic presence on the field, but his evolution under Liverpool’s new manager has been profound. With five goals in the first five Premier League games this season, Diaz has emerged as a key figure in Arne Slot’s revamped side. But what has changed to ignite this transformation?

This article delves into Diaz’s resurgence, exploring tactical tweaks, man-management, and a growing connection with the Anfield faithful. The Athletic’s original article serves as the foundation for our discussion, but we’ll also provide our insights and takeaways.

Diaz: From Street Baller to Tactical Master

The most significant observation from Diaz’s recent performances is the noticeable change in his tactical role. Known previously for his raw talent, dribbling skills, and work ethic, Diaz’s output in front of goal often fell short of expectations. His 24 goals in 98 appearances prior to this season didn’t fully reflect his potential. Slot, however, has harnessed this potential by making critical adjustments to Diaz’s game.

As pointed out by Dr Phil Barter in Anfield Index’s Under Pressure podcast, Diaz has transitioned “from being a street baller to a more refined tactical player.” His role no longer relies on instinctive, solo bursts down the left flank. Instead, Diaz is now operating more centrally and finding himself in higher-quality scoring positions.

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The statistics reinforce this narrative. Diaz’s expected goals (xG) per shot have risen from 0.13 last season to 0.19 this term. The numbers may seem small, but they are indicative of his transformation into a more efficient and calculated goal threat.

Liverpool vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold captured it best after Diaz’s double against Bournemouth: “Luis looks hungrier to score goals… He’s getting himself into the right areas and making the right decisions.” This season, Diaz’s positioning has been central to his uptick in form. He is finding the ball in areas that offer better chances to score, and the results are telling.

Tactical Tweaks Under Arne Slot

Arne Slot’s arrival at Liverpool brought with it high expectations, particularly given his reputation for improving players. Diaz, like many others in the squad, has benefited greatly from this new coaching regime. Slot’s tactical innovations, including tweaks to how the full-backs operate, have played a crucial role in Diaz’s success.

Both Andy Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold are now deployed in more natural full-back roles compared to the inverted positions they occupied under Jurgen Klopp. This subtle shift has had a profound impact on the team’s attacking dynamics. Alexander-Arnold’s movement and positioning now provide more options for Diaz to drift inside and occupy more dangerous positions. Diaz is no longer stuck on the wing, looking to cut inside and shoot from distance. Instead, he is receiving the ball in central areas, where his scoring chances are significantly higher.

Diaz’s increased involvement in central play was evident in Liverpool’s pre-season fixture against Sevilla. For his second goal, Diaz moved inside to support Diogo Jota, wrong-footed the defender, and blasted the ball into the top corner. These moments of tactical precision and positioning are what have allowed Diaz to elevate his game.

The adjustments have also made Diaz more comfortable within the team. With players like Cody Gakpo, Diogo Jota, and Federico Chiesa competing for attacking spots, Diaz has thrived in an environment that demands excellence. Slot’s decision to pursue elite attackers, ensuring Liverpool’s front line remains competitive, has only sharpened Diaz’s focus.

Photo: IMAGO

The Importance of Confidence and Composure

In past seasons, one of Diaz’s most significant flaws was his lack of composure in front of goal. He often found himself in promising positions but either rushed his shots or found his efforts blocked by defenders. This season, we are witnessing a different Diaz: one who takes his time, makes quicker decisions, and, paradoxically, plays with greater calmness in high-pressure moments.

A prime example of this newfound composure was his finish against Manchester United. After winning the ball from Casemiro, Diaz played a one-two with Alexis Mac Allister before curling a first-time shot past Andre Onana. It was a finish of supreme confidence, the type of goal that suggests a player in the form of his life.

Additionally, his strike against Brentford showcased his ability to finish with minimal fuss. Played through by Jota, Diaz didn’t overcomplicate the situation. He took his chance with poise and delivered a simple yet emphatic finish.

Diaz’s increasing ability to make better decisions quickly while maintaining his composure is a testament to Slot’s man-management. Through regular one-on-one meetings and tactical analysis sessions, Slot and his coaching staff have worked to fine-tune Diaz’s decision-making. The results are clear for all to see.

Song of Affection: Lucho’s Growing Bond with the Fans

Diaz’s resurgence isn’t just confined to the pitch. His connection with Liverpool’s fanbase has reached new heights, symbolised by the song that now echoes through Anfield. To the tune of the Italian folk song Bella Ciao, fans sing:

“His name is Lucho He came from Porto He came to score, score, score.”

The tune, originally performed by local musician Andy Hodgson, has become a fan favourite, resonating deeply with the Kop faithful. The affection Diaz has garnered from supporters has only fuelled his confidence. “I just want to say thank you so much for the song, much love,” Diaz reportedly said during a video call to Hodgson.

Such moments highlight the symbiotic relationship between player and fanbase, which plays a crucial role in Diaz’s performances. As Liverpool supporters continue to rally behind their Colombian winger, it’s clear that Diaz feels increasingly at home at Anfield.

Diaz’s Role in Slot’s Liverpool Revolution

Luis Diaz’s form this season is a testament to the broader changes at Liverpool under Slot. Slot’s emphasis on tactical discipline, combined with man-management, has helped Liverpool rediscover the form that made them a dominant force under Klopp. The club’s current attacking philosophy requires fluidity, composure, and sharp decision-making—qualities Diaz has quickly embodied.

Diaz’s ability to adjust to Slot’s methods and elevate his game further speaks to his determination and professionalism. The Colombian international has become one of the leaders of this new-look Liverpool side, alongside players like Konate and Szoboszlai. His blistering start to the Premier League campaign is a direct result of this cohesion.

Though it’s still early in the season, the signs are encouraging. Diaz is playing with a level of freedom, tactical intelligence, and clinical finishing that Liverpool fans could only have hoped for when he arrived. And with players like Erling Haaland as the only individuals currently outscoring him, Diaz is in elite company.

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Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Luis Diaz’s resurgence under Arne Slot has been a joy for Liverpool fans, and it’s easy to see why. The tweaks in his game, both tactically and mentally, have allowed Diaz to become a much more reliable attacking outlet for the team. As Dr Phil Barter noted in our Under Pressure podcast, Diaz has transitioned from a raw, instinctive player into a more refined and effective forward. The statistical evidence is there: with a rise in xG per shot, better decision-making, and fewer speculative long-range efforts, Diaz’s game is maturing at the perfect time.

Slot deserves immense credit for identifying the areas of Diaz’s game that needed refining and working closely with him to bring about these changes. From positioning to composure, Slot has overseen a transformation that is yielding impressive results. The support from the Anfield faithful, embodied by the Bella Ciao chant, has no doubt played its part, but ultimately, this transformation is down to Diaz’s dedication and Slot’s tactical acumen.

At Anfield Index, we believe that this is just the beginning for Diaz. His connection with the fans, coupled with his ability to thrive in Slot’s system, suggests that he could easily surpass the achievements of previous Liverpool wingers. And with competition for places heating up, we wouldn’t be surprised to see Diaz continue to elevate his game as the season progresses.