‘Major reason’ behind departure of ‘special’ Liverpool star revealed

Liverpool supporters were left stunned this summer when Luis Díaz, one of the club’s most beloved and electrifying players, decided to leave Anfield for a new adventure in Germany. The Colombian winger, known for his dazzling footwork and relentless energy, joined Bayern Munich in a move worth £65.5 million, bringing an end to his unforgettable spell on Merseyside.

While many fans initially struggled to understand why Díaz would leave a title-winning Liverpool side, former Premier League star Theo Walcott has now shed light on what he believes was the major reason behind the winger’s departure — and it’s a story that reveals the harsh financial realities of modern football.

Speaking on the US Overlap Podcast, Walcott offered a candid take on Díaz’s decision, suggesting that the Colombian felt underpaid compared to his influence in the team. “I get why he left,” Walcott said. “He was one of the best and most direct wingers in the Premier League, but I don’t think he was earning what he deserved for his quality. If you’ve helped your club win the Premier League and you’re among the best in your position, you expect to be paid accordingly. That’s just the nature of the game.”

Díaz’s exit came as a blow for Arne Slot, who had only just begun his reign as Liverpool manager after succeeding Jürgen Klopp. The winger had been a vital part of Slot’s attacking system, scoring 17 goals across all competitions last season while helping the Reds secure their 20th league title. His pace, pressing, and flair on the left wing made him indispensable to Liverpool’s attacking rhythm, and his absence has been keenly felt in the early weeks of the new campaign.

The Colombian’s switch to Bayern Munich, however, has been nothing short of explosive. Under the guidance of new coach Vincent Kompany, Díaz has already scored six goals and provided four assists in just ten appearances, quickly becoming a fan favourite at the Allianz Arena. German media have praised his immediate impact, calling him “a spark of chaos in Bayern’s new era.”

Reports suggest that financial disparity played a significant role in Díaz’s decision to move on. According to Bein Sports, the 28-year-old was only the 19th highest earner at Liverpool — a surprising statistic for a player of his calibre. Despite his consistent performances, Díaz reportedly earned far less than top earners like Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Andrew Robertson.

While money may not have been the sole factor, Walcott believes it certainly tipped the balance. “Footballers want to feel valued,” he explained. “And sometimes that value is shown through wages. If you’re constantly delivering but not being paid on par with your impact, you start thinking about what’s next — especially when big clubs like Bayern come calling.”

What makes Díaz’s story even more admirable is that he reportedly chose to stay at Liverpool for one final season, despite interest from European giants last year. Sources close to the player claimed he wanted to help the Reds reclaim their Premier League crown before leaving. Once that mission was accomplished, he felt it was the right time to seek a new challenge abroad.

Former Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp, who famously described Díaz as “really special,” was instrumental in shaping the Colombian’s rise at Anfield. Klopp’s faith in Díaz helped the winger evolve into one of the most feared attackers in Europe. Even after his departure, Klopp praised him publicly, saying, “Luis gave us everything — his energy, his passion, and his heart. Bayern are lucky to have him.”

Liverpool fans, too, have expressed nothing but admiration for their former star. Social media has been flooded with tributes, with many acknowledging his contributions during a crucial chapter in the club’s history. His goals in decisive matches, his relentless pressing, and his emotional connection with the supporters have cemented his place among modern Liverpool favourites.

As for Díaz, his focus is firmly on Bayern’s ambitions this season — and early signs suggest he’s thriving in the Bundesliga. His partnership with Harry Kane and Jamal Musiala has already produced thrilling attacking sequences, reminding fans in England just what they’re missing.

In the end, Díaz’s move serves as a reminder that football, for all its passion and loyalty, is also a business. Recognition — both emotional and financial — often determines a player’s path. And for Luis Díaz, a “special” player whose brilliance illuminated Anfield, the move to Munich may have been less about leaving Liverpool and more about securing the respect his performances truly deserved.