Daniel Sturridge claims Liverpool miss £65m star

Liverpool Still Searching For Spark As Sturridge Highlights Diaz Absence

Sturridge Raises Concerns Over Forward Line Dynamics

Liverpool’s recent defeat to Chelsea has reignited discussion over whether Arne Slot’s side have lost their attacking cohesion. One former striker believes the answer lies not in tactics or form but in personnel. Daniel Sturridge, speaking on Sky Sports, offered a blunt assessment.

“Luis Diaz is a massive miss for me,” said Sturridge. “When you look at Liverpool last year and how they used to press, I think arguably he was the one who would set the press in the front three.”

Diaz’s £65.5m move to Bayern Munich was considered smart business at the time, yet Sturridge argued that his value cannot be measured by goals alone. The Colombian’s work rate out of possession, his willingness to track back and his instinctive pressing set the tone for the rest of the frontline. Without him, the structure looks less disciplined.

Photo: IMAGO

Forward Balance Still Unresolved

Arne Slot has trialled various combinations across his front line. Alexander Isak arrived to spearhead the attack, Hugo Ekitike added youthful unpredictability and Florian Wirtz was brought in to link midfield to attack. All possess technical ability, yet Sturridge believes something less tangible has been lost.

“Ekitike and Isak and Wirtz work hard, we can’t question their quality.

“But Diaz would sacrifice himself defensively. That’s what they’ve got to figure out now, who in that attack is going to give themselves up a little bit.”

Sturridge’s analysis touches on a wider issue. Liverpool’s greatest strength in recent years came from balance. One forward would press, another would drop deep, another would stretch the pitch. Now, roles seem more fluid, yet also less defined.

Identity In Transition

“In a front three there always has to be one guy who goes, ‘I’m not stats hungry,’” Sturridge insisted.

His point mirrors recent comments from Jamie Carragher about Wirtz’s settling period. The German has the intelligence to adapt but remains caught between creative freedom and defensive responsibility. Alexander Isak, meanwhile, has been criticised for not yet imposing himself physically in certain fixtures.

Sturridge noted that even Slot appears unsure of his best blend.

“Right now, I’m not sure the manager knows what he’s going to do.”

It is not a crisis, but it is a question. Liverpool still create chances, still dominate games, yet do not suffocate opponents in the way they once did. Diaz may not have been the star name, but he was often the disruptor.

United Clash Offers Immediate Test

The upcoming home match against Manchester United, following the international break, will provide a stern examination of Liverpool’s resolve. Slot will demand aggression, unity and a return to front-foot pressing. Whether Isak, Ekitike or Wirtz can assume Diaz’s selfless mantle remains to be seen.

Sturridge’s words carry weight not simply because of his past, but because they reflect what supporters are already sensing. In a squad rich with finishers, Liverpool may still be seeking one more fighter.