Liverpool manager Arne Slot has explained the absences of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez from the squad named for the pre-season friendly against AC Milan in Hong Kong on July 26, 2025. Both players were not included despite Diaz having recently returned to training following his summer engagements.
Slot acknowledged Diaz’s absence is related to ongoing transfer speculation linking the winger with a move to Bayern Munich. Diaz has been a key figure for Liverpool since his January 2022 arrival from Porto, with 41 goals and 23 assists in 148 appearances, demonstrating valuable tactical versatility. Last season, his 13 league goals were instrumental in Liverpool’s Premier League title-winning campaign under Slot’s management.
Despite the transfer rumors and Diaz’s apparent desire to leave, Liverpool are currently under no financial necessity to sell, as his contract runs until 2027 and the club values his contributions and flexibility. The manager indicated any potential transfer would require a significant offer, and talks with Bayern remain ongoing, suggesting a deal is still possible but not finalized.
As for Darwin Nunez, Slot has not given a detailed explanation for his absence but implied that the decisions are part of managing player fitness and preparations ahead of the new season. Both absences highlight Liverpool’s cautious approach during pre-season, balancing player workload with transfer market activity.
The upcoming weeks are expected to be decisive for Liverpool’s squad composition ahead of the Community Shield and the Premier League campaign start, with close attention on how the Diaz situation develops amid Bayern’s sustained interest.
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