When Alexis Mac Allister sat down for a recent interview, few expected the Liverpool midfielder to make a remark that would leave supporters in disbelief. Known for his calm, thoughtful nature, the Argentine—who has shared the pitch with Lionel Messi for Argentina—was asked a simple question: Who is the closest player to Messi you’ve ever played with?
Instead of naming a current teammate or one of Argentina’s World Cup stars, Mac Allister gave a surprising answer: Luis Díaz, the Colombian winger Liverpool sold to Bayern Munich last summer.
The comment sent ripples across Merseyside. Comparing anyone to Messi is daring enough, but to link a recently departed player with the world’s greatest footballer made fans pause and reflect.
A Summer of Record Signings and a Painful Exit
Liverpool’s 2025 summer transfer window was one of the most eventful in club history. The club broke transfer records twice in just weeks, bringing in Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen and Alexander Isak from Newcastle for a combined £241 million. With further reinforcements such as Hugo Ekitike, Liverpool’s total spending soared to around £450 million.
Yet amid all the excitement of new arrivals, one major departure stood out—Luis Díaz’s move to Bayern Munich.
Díaz had joined from FC Porto in 2022 and quickly became a fan favourite at Anfield. His flair, determination, and ability to change games made him an icon. He played a vital role in Liverpool’s domestic successes and enjoyed his finest season during the club’s title-winning campaign.
But as contract negotiations stalled and Bayern’s £65.5 million offer arrived, Liverpool decided it was time to move forward with younger targets. Díaz accepted the challenge of the Bundesliga, enticed by a starring role and improved terms.
Few could have predicted that only months later, Mac Allister would compare him to Messi.
Why Mac Allister Made the Comparison
Explaining his reasoning, Mac Allister said:
“I think Dembele when we played PSG away—he was unbelievable at that time. And I’d put Lucho up there too, Luis Díaz. It was really tough to mark him, even in training. I had to give him a few tackles.”
For Mac Allister, the comparison wasn’t about achievements but feeling. Facing Díaz in training, he saw the same traits that make Messi so unique—quick feet, agility, unpredictability, and that instant spark of magic that unsettles defenders.
Díaz Shines in Germany as Liverpool March On
Since arriving in Munich, Díaz has quickly made his mark. With three goals and two assists in his first four Bundesliga matches, he’s become one of Vincent Kompany’s standout performers. German media have already labelled him “unstoppable.”
Back at Liverpool, opinions remain divided. Some fans wonder whether selling him was a mistake, while others point to Arne Slot’s perfect start—winning in every competition so far—as proof that the club made the right call. With Wirtz, Isak, and Ekitike integrating well, the team’s future appears bright.
Still, for many supporters, Díaz’s departure left an emotional void. His infectious energy and fearless play embodied everything Liverpool fans cherish.
Football Logic vs. Football Emotion
From a business and tactical standpoint, Liverpool’s decision made sense. The club is building for the long term, investing in youth and depth. But football isn’t just about strategy—it’s also about passion.
Mac Allister’s comment tapped into that emotion. He wasn’t claiming Díaz is Messi, but acknowledging that he evokes the same sensations: the thrill of unpredictability, the sudden acceleration, the moments that make fans rise to their feet.
Two Clubs, One Debate
Now, both Díaz and Liverpool are thriving in their own ways. Bayern fans are already embracing the Colombian, while Liverpool supporters continue to rally behind Slot’s new era.
If Díaz continues to dominate in Germany, some will argue Liverpool let a star slip away. If Slot’s Liverpool lift more trophies, the club’s vision will be vindicated. The truth may be that both sides win.
A Remark That Will Be Remembered
One sentence from Mac Allister has reignited admiration for a player who once lit up Anfield. Every time Díaz produces a moment of brilliance for Bayern, fans will remember what he brought to Liverpool—and the rare magic he possessed.
Perhaps that’s the essence of Mac Allister’s remark: time moves on, teams evolve, but the players who make fans believe in magic are never forgotten.
Luis Díaz was one of those players. And thanks to Mac Allister, his name will always carry that touch of Messi-like wonder
