‘Pep Didn’t Want Me to Leave Man City – I Could Replace Mo Salah at Liverpool’

The future of Mohamed Salah at Liverpool remains a topic of considerable discussion, with his contract nearing its expiration. As a result, Liverpool manager Arne Slot is reportedly exploring potential replacements for the Egyptian forward. One name that has emerged in connection with a move to Anfield is former Manchester City star, Brahim Diaz.

The prospect of Diaz joining Liverpool would undoubtedly sting Pep Guardiola, his former manager at Manchester City. Diaz spent three years under Guardiola’s guidance at the Etihad Stadium before his transfer to Real Madrid in January 2019.

Guardiola’s High Regard for Diaz

Despite only making 15 senior appearances for Manchester City, Diaz clearly impressed Guardiola. The Spanish manager recognized the young winger’s potential and spoke highly of him around the time of his departure.

Guardiola acknowledged the difficulty young players face in breaking into top teams but emphasized Diaz’s qualities and dedication. “His training is always incredible and he’s really appreciated by all of us,” Guardiola stated, highlighting Diaz’s work ethic and positive attitude.

Manchester City’s Desire to Retain Diaz

Guardiola also revealed Manchester City’s desire to keep Diaz at the club. “Everyone here is ready to play in the first team, otherwise he wouldn’t be here,” Guardiola explained, emphasizing the club’s belief in Diaz’s ability.

He added, “He knows we want him, but after that it’s down to his agent and himself. We will do absolutely everything to keep him with us – afterwards he decides. We want him, but at the end it doesn’t depend on us.” These comments clearly indicate that Manchester City were reluctant to lose Diaz.

Diaz’s Journey from Manchester to Madrid and Milan

Following his move to Real Madrid, Diaz initially struggled to secure regular playing time, making only six appearances in his first season. He subsequently spent three seasons on loan with AC Milan, where he gained valuable experience and showcased his talent.

During his time with the Rossoneri, Diaz scored 18 goals in 124 appearances, demonstrating his attacking capabilities and contributing significantly to the team’s success. This loan spell proved crucial in his development as a player.

Return to Real Madrid and Limited Opportunities

Diaz returned to Real Madrid for the 2023/24 season and signed a contract extension, committing himself to the club until the summer of 2027. However, despite his impressive performances with AC Milan, he has found it difficult to break into Carlo Ancelotti’s starting lineup.

The presence of world-class attacking talent such as Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, Endrick, and Arda Guler has created intense competition for places in the Real Madrid attack, limiting Diaz’s opportunities.

Liverpool’s Interest and Potential Salah Replacement

Reports from Spanish outlet Fichajes suggest that Liverpool are considering a move for Diaz as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah. With Salah’s contract expiring at the end of the season, Liverpool are exploring their options in case the Egyptian forward decides to leave Anfield.

Diaz’s Premier League experience, combined with his attacking abilities and potential, makes him an attractive target for Liverpool.

Liverpool’s Strong Position and Contract Concerns

Arne Slot’s Liverpool are currently in excellent form, sitting atop the Premier League table with a comfortable lead. However, the club faces uncertainty regarding the future of some of their key players.

In addition to Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, while Virgil van Dijk is hoping to secure a contract extension. These contract situations create a degree of uncertainty for Liverpool’s future.

Salah’s Continued Importance to Liverpool

Despite entering the later stages of his career, Salah continues to be a vital player for Liverpool. His goal-scoring and playmaking abilities remain crucial to the team’s success.

This season, Salah has scored 18 goals and provided 13 assists in 21 league appearances, further demonstrating his enduring quality and importance to Liverpool’s attacking prowess. His Champions League contributions have also been significant.

Competition for Diaz’s Signature and Potential Transfer Fee

Liverpool may face stiff competition for Diaz’s signature, with Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund also reportedly interested in the player.

While no official price tag has been set, reports suggest that it would take a bid of around £50 million to secure Diaz’s services. This would represent a significant investment for Liverpool.

The potential signing of Diaz would be a strategic move by Liverpool, securing a talented player who can contribute to the team’s attacking options.

The connection to Guardiola adds an interesting dimension to the potential transfer, given the manager’s high regard for Diaz.

The competition from other top European clubs highlights Diaz’s desirability and the challenges Liverpool may face in securing his signature.

The potential transfer fee of £50 million reflects Diaz’s value in the current transfer market.

The situation surrounding Salah’s contract adds urgency to Liverpool’s search for potential replacements.

The signing of Diaz could be a significant statement of intent from Liverpool.

The transfer saga surrounding Diaz is likely to continue in the coming months as Liverpool assess their options and prepare for the summer transfer window.