Liverpool Told What They're Missing This Season as Daniel Sturridge Points Out Major Transfer Mistake

‎Liverpool’s recent downturn has sparked strong criticism from former striker Daniel Sturridge, who believes the club’s summer transfer decisions are behind their current struggles. The ex-England international suggested the Reds are missing the energy and defensive balance that Luis Díaz once provided before his move to Bayern Munich.

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Daniel Sturridge says Liverpool’s form slump stems from selling Luis Díaz, as Arne Slot’s side struggles to find attacking balance.

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‎Liverpool suffered a 2-1 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge after conceding a stoppage-time goal, marking their third straight loss in all competitions. The result dropped Arne Slot’s team from the top of the Premier League, deepening questions about their attacking identity despite a record-breaking £450 million summer overhaul.

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‎Speaking to Sky Sports, Sturridge pinpointed Díaz’s absence as a major factor in Liverpool’s dip in performance. “Luis Díaz is a massive miss for me,” he said. “He was the one who set the press in the front three. His hunger, tenacity, and defensive work gave Liverpool something special. I think Ekitike, Isak, and Wirtz are all quality, but they’re attack-minded players. Díaz would sacrifice himself for the team, and that balance is what they’ve lost.”

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‎Sturridge also voiced concerns over Slot’s team selection in the Chelsea defeat, particularly the decision to bench German playmaker Florian Wirtz. According to the former striker, Wirtz’s creativity could have changed the game. “This was the type of match you needed a player like Wirtz,” Sturridge explained. “He can create, control the tempo, and make decisive plays. Szoboszlai offers great pressing, but Wirtz brings that spark you need in tough away fixtures.”

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‎Liverpool’s tactical struggles have now led to increased scrutiny on Arne Slot, who faces the challenge of reshaping his attack without compromising defensive cohesion. The team enters the international break on the back of three straight defeats, searching for answers ahead of a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester United at Anfield on October 19.