Theo Walcott believes he understands why Luis Diaz decided to leave Liverpool during the summer transfer window.
The Colombian winger departed the Premier League champions to join Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich, where he’s enjoyed an impressive start, recording six goals and four assists in 10 appearances under Vincent Kompany (across all competitions). His early form is proving why Bayern were willing to pay £65.5 million for his signature (Guardian).
Despite being a fan favourite at Anfield, Walcott thinks Diaz’s relatively low salary played a major role in his decision to move on.
“I get why he left,” Walcott told the US Overlap Podcast (via Rousing The Kop). “He was one of the best, most direct and unique wingers in the league, but probably wasn’t being paid what he felt he deserved for a player of his quality.
“As a player, you think, ‘I’m one of the best in the country, I’ve won the Premier League, I should be earning more.’ And that does influence decisions—it’s a major factor.”
Diaz netted 17 goals in all competitions last season and played a key role in Arne Slot’s title-winning campaign.
The former Porto star—described by Jurgen Klopp as “really special” during his time at Anfield (via OneFootball)—reportedly wanted to leave last summer but stayed to help Liverpool clinch their 20th league title before departing.
Although his contract ran until 2027, Bayern still had to pay a hefty fee to secure the deal.
A Bein Sports report from July revealed Diaz ranked as just the 19th highest-paid player in the Liverpool squad, earning far less than teammates like Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Andrew Robertson.
While money isn’t everything for players, it often plays a crucial part in shaping career choices.
Diaz was an outstanding player for Liverpool, and fans will no doubt wish him continued success in Bavaria.
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