Arne Slot Names One Thing he will Miss About Luis Diaz as Liverpool Exit is Confirmed | OneFootball

Arne Slot Pays Tribute to Luis Diaz After Liverpool Departure

Luis Diaz has bid farewell to Liverpool following a successful three-and-a-half year spell that yielded four major trophies, 41 goals and countless memories. The Colombian’s final contribution was part of the club’s Premier League title triumph in 2024–25, Arne Slot’s first season in charge. As the Reds wrapped up their pre-season tour of Asia, Slot reflected on Diaz’s departure with warmth, honesty and admiration.

Personality and Professionalism on Display

Slot spoke candidly about Diaz, praising both his character and commitment during their time together. “First of all for the person he was because he always had a smile on his face no matter what, in the year that I’ve worked with him,” Slot said.

There was a clear fondness in the Dutchman’s words, rooted in Diaz’s consistent attitude on and off the pitch. “I played him a lot so then maybe it’s a little bit more normal to have a smile on your face,” Slot added with a smile of his own. “But even when I didn’t play him he always came out for every training session and gave it everything, with a smile on his face.”

Photo: IMAGO

The quote painted a picture of a player who, regardless of role or minutes, remained fully engaged. It’s a trait rarely found in modern football at the elite level, especially at a club like Liverpool where the competition for places is relentless.

Song That Echoed Through Anfield

Slot also singled out the connection between Diaz and the fans, highlighting the now-iconic chant that followed the Colombian across Europe. “I’m going to miss his song a lot, a lot, a lot as well because it was maybe one of the best songs our fans have for a player.”

At Liverpool, a chant means more than melody. It’s a badge of honour, reserved only for those who forge a genuine bond with the Kop. That Diaz earned his own anthem speaks volumes.

Footballing Reasons Behind the Exit

While emotional farewells dominate the headlines, Slot didn’t shy away from addressing the business side of the deal. “This is also who we are as a club. We are making big signings, we have done that over the past few years. But this club also needs to recoup funds to get these transfers that we already did over the line.”

Liverpool’s summer has seen notable investment, and with that comes the need for balance. As Slot pointed out, outgoings are just as important as incomings, particularly when managing a sustainable project. “It has been a summer where we’ve spent a lot but I think if people look at all the money we’ve already brought in, that’s also… a good thing for this club as well.”

What Diaz Leaves Behind

The loss of Luis Diaz marks the end of a memorable chapter, one written with flair, humility and silverware. His departure leaves a gap in Liverpool’s squad but perhaps a larger one in spirit. Under Arne Slot, the club will move forward, but Diaz’s influence — and song — will linger in the minds of fans and teammates alike.