Anfield, June 21, 2024 – Cody Gakpo’s standout performances on the left flank are prompting serious discussions about Luis Diaz’s future at Liverpool. As Gakpo continues to excel in his preferred position, the club faces a potential dilemma: cashing in on Diaz might be a strategic move amid Barcelona’s interest.

Last season, Gakpo himself expressed curiosity about what plans Arne Slot, Liverpool’s new manager, had in store for him and the team. Slot, known for his success with limited resources in the Netherlands, now steps into the shoes of the iconic Jürgen Klopp, who left the club in a robust state after winning the Carabao Cup and securing Champions League qualification.

Liverpool’s off-season has been filled with speculation and uncertainty. The return of “laptop guru” Michael Edwards and the hiring of the highly-regarded Richard Hughes as sporting director have rekindled optimism about building a new era on Klopp’s solid foundations. Yet, questions linger over the futures of key players like Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, all entering the final year of their contracts. Furthermore, Slot’s plans for Darwin Nunez remain unclear, while Luis Diaz continues to be linked with a move away.

Gakpo’s transformation under Klopp was pivotal. Initially struggling to adapt to a new midfield role, Gakpo’s confidence waned. Klopp admitted that shifting Gakpo out of his comfort zone affected his performance. However, after a crucial conversation with Klopp in March, Gakpo found clarity and returned to form, finishing the season strong and reasserting his influence on the left side.

This resurgence was on full display during the Netherlands’ Euro 2024 opener against Poland, where Gakpo was named Man of the Match. His dynamic play on the wing, scoring and creating multiple opportunities, underscored his preference and effectiveness on the flank.

For Luis Diaz, who has been a vital yet inconsistent presence for Liverpool, Gakpo’s rise presents a significant challenge. Despite his undeniable flair and ability to unsettle defenses, Diaz’s end product has often fallen short. Statistically, he lagged behind Gakpo last season, despite more starts and playing time. His season was marred by personal trauma, including his father’s kidnapping, but doubts over his consistency and output remain.

With Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain reportedly eyeing Diaz, Liverpool might consider a lucrative sale to bolster other areas of the squad. Slot’s decision on whether to retain or sell Diaz could shape Liverpool’s attacking future. If the club decides to part ways with Diaz, the funds could facilitate further strengthening of the squad, especially with Gakpo, Diogo Jota, and even Darwin Nunez as potential options for the left-wing role.

As the summer transfer window heats up and Gakpo continues to impress on the international stage, Slot’s vision for Liverpool will become clearer. Gakpo’s preferred role on the left could be the key to unlocking Liverpool’s next phase, possibly at the expense of Diaz’s tenure at Anfield.