Liverpool Player Ratings: Diaz Shines vs Leverkusen
Liverpool's pre-season tour continued with a dominant 4-3 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, with Luis Diaz putting on a masterclass. Here's a breakdown of the Reds' performance, player by player:
Luis Diaz (9/10)
The Colombian winger was simply sensational. He was a constant threat down the left flank, terrorizing the Leverkusen defense with his pace, skill, and finishing ability. Diaz scored two goals, including a stunning volley, and set up another. He looked absolutely unstoppable and will be a key player for Liverpool this season.
Darwin Nunez (7/10)
Nunez continued his positive start to the pre-season. He was involved in the build-up to Diaz's first goal and looked sharp in his movement and link-up play. He also scored a goal of his own, but missed a couple of other good chances. Overall, a good performance from the Uruguayan striker.
Cody Gakpo (7/10)
Gakpo also impressed in his first pre-season outing for Liverpool. He was involved in the build-up to Diaz's second goal and created a couple of good opportunities for himself. Gakpo showed his technical ability and his understanding of the game, and looks set to be a key part of Klopp's attacking unit this season.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (7/10)
The right-back provided a constant threat going forward. He whipped in a number of dangerous crosses and linked up well with Salah. Alexander-Arnold also defended well, making some important interceptions and tackles. He's looking sharp and ready to lead the line on the right side of the defense this season.
Fabinho (7/10)
Fabinho was his usual dominant self in midfield. He provided a strong presence in the middle of the pitch, breaking up play and winning tackles. Fabinho also played some intelligent passes and started attacks from deep. A reliable performance from the Brazilian midfielder.
The Rest
- Alisson (6/10): Alisson was relatively quiet for the majority of the game but made a couple of good saves, including a penalty stop.
- Konate (6/10): Konate was solid at the back, dealing with the Leverkusen attack effectively.
- Van Dijk (6/10): The Dutchman was his usual composed self in defense.
- Robertson (6/10): Robertson was a constant outlet down the left flank, but perhaps lacked the same attacking spark as Diaz.
- Henderson (6/10): A good performance in midfield, Henderson provided control and stability.
- Jones (6/10): Jones played a solid game, showing his strengths as a central defender.
- Elliott (6/10): The young midfielder was energetic and creative but didn't have a major impact on the game.
- Bajcetic (6/10): The young midfielder showed some good flashes of talent but needs to continue to grow.
- Joao Gomes (6/10): Gomes played well in midfield, showing his ability to break up play and start attacks.
- Salah (6/10): Salah was a threat going forward, but was slightly off his usual pace.
- Carvalho (6/10): Carvalho looked energetic and involved in the game, but was unable to make a decisive impact.
Overall, Liverpool looked very good in this pre-season friendly. The attacking trio of Diaz, Nunez, and Gakpo were particularly impressive and will be a fearsome force for opposition defenses this season. The Reds' midfield also looked strong and organized, while the defense was solid throughout. This was a positive sign for Liverpool ahead of the new season.