Liverpool's latest sensation, Luis Diaz, has been making waves in the football world with his recent UEFA Champions League hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen. His performance has drawn comparisons to former Liverpool winger Sadio Mane from none other than Virgil van Dijk.
Diaz is one of only seven Liverpool players to score a hat-trick in the Champions League. This remarkable feat was achieved after coach Arne Slot instructed him to play as a striker (no. 9 role) rather than his usual position on the wing.
Ryan Gravenberch was left amazed by Diaz's performance, suggesting that the Colombian international may have unlocked a new skill that could be invaluable for Liverpool this season. With no guaranteed starter for the striker position yet, this development could prove crucial.
Van Dijk draws parallels between Diaz and Mane
Following Liverpool’s victory over Leverkusen, Virgil van Dijk likened Diaz’s attacking versatility to that of Sadio Mane. The Senegal international had played virtually every forward position for the Reds and excelled at each one.
Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool defender, said:
“I think we’ve seen that over the last couple of years with Sadio playing as a No. 9 and drifting in different positions, so I think the players can do damage everywhere. Obviously for him [Diaz], I’m very pleased for him to get this first Champions League hat-trick of his career. I think he’s an amazing player, like the rest of the guys.”
Van Dijk expressed his pleasure at seeing Diaz score his first Champions League hat-trick and praised him as an amazing player who can do damage from any position on field.
How does Diaz measure up against Mane?
Sadio Mane is widely regarded as one of Premier League era's greatest attackers ever seen in Liverpool colors; hence replacing him seemed like an impossible task until Luis diaz stepped up.
Here are some stats comparing both players:
Luis Diaz's 2024/25 stats (so far):
- Games played: 15
- Goals: 9
- Assists: 2
Sadio Mane’s 2021/22 stats:
- Games played: 51
- Goals: 23
- Assists: 4
Diaz's performance this season is promising, and he seems well on track to surpass Mane’s record with the Reds. With nearly a third less games, Diaz is almost halfway to Mane’s tally, suggesting that the Colombian international could do something very special this campaign.
Luis Diaz's recent performances have not only won him accolades but also drawn comparisons with Liverpool great Sadio Mane. His versatility and ability to excel in different positions make him a valuable asset for Liverpool. If his current form continues, he might just be able to fill the void left by Mane and carve his own legacy at Anfield.
