Ex-Liverpool Star Criticizes 'Really Stupid' Transfer Decision as Reds Left Behind

Liverpool FC is facing a turbulent 2025/26 season under manager Arne Slot, marked by just three wins in 12 matches—the club's worst run since the 1953/54 relegation threat. Despite a recent unbeaten streak of five games, frustrations linger over recruitment and team balance, spotlighting the summer sale of winger Luis Diaz as a pivotal error[1].

Former Liverpool star Ryan Babel, speaking on the FILTHY @ FIVE podcast, lambasted the decision to let Diaz depart, calling it a key mistake that disrupted the team's pressing dynamics. "Sometimes if the right puzzles are not together, like I think one of the mistakes I believe is leaving Diaz," Babel said. He highlighted how Diaz's relentless work rate alleviated pressure on Mohamed Salah, allowing the Egyptian forward to focus on goals. Even Darwin Nunez, despite not being the ideal striker, contributed similarly by sharing the load. Now, without such support, Salah shoulders more defensive duties, leading to criticism from figures like Wayne Rooney over his reduced output in a mixed season[1].

The blame extends beyond Slot, who reportedly wanted to keep Diaz. Sporting director Richard Hughes sanctioned the sale, exposing a rift between managerial vision and front-office execution. This imbalance has fueled Liverpool's mid-table struggles, sitting eighth after 15 Premier League games[1][2].

Compounding issues, Salah himself erupted post a 3-3 draw with Leeds United, where he was benched for the third straight match. Hinting at a January exit, he accused the club of scapegoating him amid their poor form. Ex-Reds Danny Murphy and Michael Owen slammed his public outburst as selfish. "You're causing the team a problem... making it all about him," Murphy said on Match of the Day. Owen urged Salah to "bite your lip" before AFCON[2].

Salah, with 250 goals in 420 appearances and a recent contract extension after last season's title win, remains central. Yet, his current five goals in 18 games underscore the Reds' woes. As scrutiny intensifies, Babel's critique resonates: Liverpool's transfer missteps have left them adrift[1][2].

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