Explained: Why Liverpool star Luis Diaz was nearly hooked at half-time against Man Utd despite scoring early brace

Diaz has made a dream start to his 2024/25 campaign having scored in back-to-back Premier League games including a brilliant brace against Manchester United. The Colombian broke the deadlock in the 35th minute before netting a second in the 42nd minute to hand his team a convincing 2-0 lead after the first-half. However, the Daily Mail reports that despite a terrific performance on the pitch, manager Arne Slot almost substituted Diaz at half-time.

The Dutch coach later revealed that he was unhappy with the winger's defensive work and his lack of effort to track back. Slot felt that this particular aspect could prove to be detrimental to the outcome of the game in an away fixture at Old Trafford. Diaz was eventually subbed off in the 66th minute as Cody Gakpo replaced him.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, the Reds boss said, "We said they were going to press aggressively, but I showed them three moments where one situation led to a chance for Mazraoui. Luis [Diaz] was not tracking back as he should. Those moments can change the game at Old Trafford. It's a good win."

Having won three consecutive matches in the Premier League, Slot and Co will aim to extend their winning streak after the international break as they take on Nottingham Forest next on September 14.