3 Shocking Reasons Behind Liverpool Dropping Luis Diaz Amid Bayern Munich Talks

Premier League champions, Liverpool have been rocked by the omission of star forward Luis Diaz from their pre-season squad in Hong Kong, with head coach Arne Slot confirming that the Colombian’s absence in the 4-2 defeat to AC Milan was linked to his uncertain future at Anfield.

Amid growing speculation of a big-money move to German giants Bayern Munich, the club's decision to leave Diaz out of the 22-man squad has raised eyebrows and revealed three shocking reasons behind the situation.

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The clearest and most significant factor behind Diaz’s absence is the escalating transfer interest from Bayern Munich. Having already submitted a bid just shy of £58.5 million, which Liverpool turned down, the Bundesliga champions are reportedly preparing a second, more substantial offer.

Sources close to the Colombian suggest he is open to the move, seeing it as a new challenge and an opportunity to be a key figure at another European powerhouse.

Another shocking reason behind Diaz’s omission may lie in squad unity and morale. With transfer rumours swirling and Diaz reportedly pushing for an exit, Liverpool’s staff may have viewed his involvement in a high-profile friendly as a potential distraction.

By removing him from matchday duties, Slot has aimed to keep focus within the camp — especially as the Reds continue their preparations for a demanding season ahead.

This is further backed by the absence of Darwin Nunez, who also sat out the AC Milan clash. Although Slot attributed that to a “minor injury,” the timing and lack of specifics have fueled further speculation about unrest within the attacking ranks.

In a squad that has already seen big changes and expects more, maintaining cohesion may have taken precedence over showcasing star names.

The third and perhaps most unexpected reason is a broader strategic shift within the club.

Despite having spent £295 million this summer, Liverpool still face questions over depth, particularly in defence.

Joe Gomez has returned to England with an Achilles injury, and the Reds are short on centre-backs after Jarell Quansah’s departure.

Slot acknowledged this, hinting at Ryan Gravenberch or Wataru Endo being used as emergency defenders — a telling sign that resources may be reallocated.

Despite the 4-2 defeat to AC Milan, there were some positives, with Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo on target and promising showings from Florian Wirtz and teenage talent Rio Ngumoha.

But all eyes remain on Tokyo and on whether Diaz boards the plane.