Liverpool NewsArne Slot provides different reasons for Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez’s Liverpool absences…

Arne Slot offers various explanations for the absences of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez from Liverpool’s lineup.

Liverpool players Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz observed from the sidelines as their team suffered a defeat against AC Milan in Hong Kong after being excluded from Arne Slot’s squad on Saturday.

Arne Slot disclosed that Luis Diaz was omitted from the match against AC Milan due to ongoing discussions regarding his future.

In contrast, Darwin Nunez, who has also been rumored to leave, was sidelined due to a ‘minor’ fitness concern that prevented him from participating in the game.

Slot’s team experienced a 4-2 loss to the Italian side as the Dutch manager aimed to enhance his team’s performance.

Florian Wirtz made his debut in front of fans and displayed glimpses of his potential but was unable to lead Liverpool to a win.

Despite making several substitutions, the Reds had multiple players unavailable. Waturo Endo was absent due to illness, while Alexis Mac Allister is still working on his fitness after an injury and is expected to miss the upcoming match in Japan against Yokohama FM, despite having returned to training.

New signing Hugo Ekitike was also not selected as the team decided to give him additional time to acclimate following his arrival earlier this week. Ekitike is anticipated to make his debut on Wednesday.

Both Diaz and Darwin were present at Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong on Saturday, but their absence from the squad raised immediate questions about the implications for their futures. After the match, it became clear that Diaz’s situation might be more significant.

“Yes, Luis Diaz was excluded today due to speculation regarding his future,” Slot stated after Liverpool’s defeat.

The Colombian forward has been linked with moves to Barcelona and Bayern Munich this summer. Barcelona has since acquired Marcus Rashford on loan from Manchester United, while the German club is pursuing a deal for Diaz from Liverpool.

The forward has been in negotiations with Liverpool about his future and has two years left on his contract.

Bayern is reported to have submitted a second offer for Diaz’s services; however, their initial bid of £58 million was turned down by the Reds, who have made it clear that he is not available for transfer.

It remains to be seen whether the player’s absence on Saturday indicates a shift in their position.

Joe Gomez was absent from the match against Milan after returning to Merseyside due to an Achilles injury. Slot commented: “He was, of course, with us for the first part of the week, but he experienced some issues with his Achilles.

“We believed it was best for him to be evaluated back in England and to focus on his recovery so that he can return to the team under more favorable conditions for him.”