With Luis Diaz linked to a move to Bayern Munich, Real Madrid’s Rodrygo has emerged as a potential replacement.
But does the Brazilian stack up to Liverpool’s No. 7? Using FotMob stats and performance breakdowns, the data tells a compelling story — and not entirely in Rodrygo’s favour.
Versatility? Yes. Output? Not quite
Rodrygo’s positional flexibility is appealing — he played across the front three last season: 14 games on the right, nine on the left, and seven centrally.
Diaz, too, wasn’t tied down to one spot, with 14 of his 36 Premier League appearances coming as a central forward under Arne Slot. Both fit the mould of a fluid front line, but the Colombian produced more end product.
Goals, assists, threat: Diaz dominates
Despite playing 473 minutes more, Diaz scored 13 Premier League goals to Rodrygo’s six in LaLiga. Both tallied five assists, but Diaz created 56 chances to Rodrygo’s 49. More tellingly, Diaz outperformed the Brazilian in key efficiency metrics:
- Goals per 90: 0.49 vs 0.28
- Shots on target per 90: 1.12 vs 0.93
- xG + xA per 90: 0.62 vs 0.38
- Shooting accuracy: 61% vs 53%
- Shots per 90: 1.82 vs 1.77
Diaz also showed more finishing variety — goals with both feet, headers, and even his chest — while Rodrygo’s output leaned heavily on his right foot.
Also Read: Luis Diaz replacement masterplan set by Richard Hughes
Off-the-ball work: Slot DNA
In true Liverpool fashion, Diaz excels defensively. He led the team in possessions won in the final third per 90 (0.82). He also posted higher numbers than Rodrygo in successful tackles, blocks, and headed clearances.
- Successful tackles per 90: 0.97 to 0.65
- Blocks per 90: 0.82 to 0.74
- Headed clearances per 90: 0.19 to 0.14
- Possession won in the final third per 90: 0.82 to 0.42
While Rodrygo had more interceptions, Diaz’s superior pressing stats make him more aligned with Liverpool’s high-energy ethos.
A gamble, not a guarantee
Rodrygo has the potential and pedigree, but replacing Diaz — Liverpool’s most balanced wide threat — with a less proven, less consistent player would be a risk.
While no concrete move is imminent, and Liverpool aren’t actively pursuing Rodrygo, his name continues to circulate, likely driven by his camp.
If Diaz leaves, Liverpool need more than potential — they need proven fire. Right now, Rodrygo isn’t that.
Also Read: Fabrizio Romano reveals why negotiation with Rodrygo are taking time