Liverpool forward among Premier League’s best playmakers despite finishing issues

The 2023/24 Premier League season just concluded after an enthralling title race, and Liverpool attacker Luiz Diaz stands out as one of the best attacking playmakers in the top flight. 

Despite Liverpool’s struggles, Diaz has been excellent, showing his potential to be a game-changer.

Diaz recorded an impressive 163 shot-creating actions this season, averaging 5.58 per 90 minutes (the fifth most in the top flight). 

However, Liverpool’s inefficiency in front of goal meant Diaz could only amass nine goal-creating actions. 

The team’s poor finishing has been a critical issue. Liverpool’s dire run in front of goal cost them in the PL title race. The Reds failed to convert Diaz’s effectiveness into tangible results.

Liverpool led the way at the summit of the table for most of the second half of the season, but their profligacy in front of goal left them trailing in the run-in.

Diaz has also faced criticism for his productivity in the final third. In 37 league appearances, he recorded just eight goals and five assists, missing 12 big chances. His 9% conversion rate has raised concerns among fans and pundits.

However, it is worth noting that Diaz’s contributions are beyond goals and assists. He excels in advancing the ball, with an average of 4.1 progressive carries per 90 minutes, demonstrating his ability to penetrate opposition defences. 

His relentless dribbling and ability to navigate tight spaces make him a constant threat, creating opportunities for himself and his teammates.

Diaz is always willing to position himself in dangerous areas, evident from his 7.1 touches in the box per game. His shot-creating actions place him in the 91st percentile among players in Europe’s top five leagues, underscoring his elite playmaking abilities.

Liverpool and Diaz’s season may have been underwhelming in the end, but there is a silver lining. 

His dribbling and ability to create scoring chances make him a valuable asset. If Liverpool can address their finishing woes, Diaz can potentially elevate the team’s attacking threat under Arne Slot next season.