Bayern Munich Chief Praises Luis Diaz's Agent for Sealing Liverpool Exit

In a revealing interview with Bild, Bayern Munich's former president Uli Hoeneß showered praise on Luis Diaz's agent for expertly negotiating the Colombian winger's transfer from Liverpool FC last summer, calling him one of the "commendable" representatives in football.[1]

Hoeneß contrasted this positive experience with his frustration over Dayot Upamecano's contract talks, where the defender's agent allegedly tried to inflate demands and push for a move elsewhere while seeking a signing fee—a tactic Bayern refused to tolerate. "This is a contradiction we can no longer tolerate," Hoeneß stated, echoing calls from Matthias Sammer to eliminate agents entirely due to their excessive salary demands.[1]

The €75 million (£65.5m) deal saw Diaz join Bayern on a contract until June 30, 2029, wearing the number 14. Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen hailed the "fair and serious negotiations" with Liverpool, describing Diaz as "one of the best left wingers in the Premier League" with a winning pedigree, including Premier League and FA Cup triumphs at Anfield.[2] Sporting director Christoph Freund added that Diaz brings "a real goal threat," speed, versatility, and top-level experience from 148 Liverpool appearances (41 goals, 23 assists).[2]

Diaz has thrived in Munich under Vincent Kompany, forming a lethal trio with Harry Kane and Michael Olise. In 32 matches, he has notched 19 goals and 15 assists, including a hat-trick and two penalties in a 5-1 rout of Hoffenheim—his third goal a stunning curler. Bayern leads the Bundesliga by six points over Dortmund and has impressed in the Champions League, beating Chelsea and PSG (Diaz scored twice).[4]

Liverpool fans initially backed the sale to fund targets like Florian Wirtz, trusting Cody Gakpo as replacement, but Diaz's success has sparked regret amid their title defense struggles. The transfer exemplifies Liverpool's policy of not overpaying contract demands, per Arne Slot.[6] Meanwhile, Diaz's form positions him to aid Liverpool's interest in RB Leipzig's €100m Yan Diomande.[3]

Bayern's praise underscores a role reversal: Diaz sought a raise at Liverpool and left; Upamecano stayed after Bayern yielded. Hoeneß noted, "We are pleased to compensate someone like that."[1]

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