Luis Diaz has expressed his absolute conviction in his decision to swap Liverpool for Bayern Munich last summer following a match-winning performance at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The Colombian forward opened the scoring as the Bundesliga leaders secured a 2-1 first-leg advantage over Real Madrid in their Champions League quarterfinal tie, taking his remarkable season tally to 41 goal involvements.
Colombian winger stars in massive victory
The €75 million signing played a pivotal role in Bayern’s first continental victory over Madrid since 2012, justifying the significant investment made by the German giants in July.
Diaz’s opening strike set the tone for an impressive display in which Vincent Kompany’s side registered nine shots on target and controlled the tempo of the quarterfinal.
His contribution in the Spanish capital extends a superb individual run, having provided five goal contributions in his last four European outings.
Vindication for the former Red
Having adapted seamlessly to life at the Allianz Arena with 23 goals and 18 assists this term, Diaz feels his move to Germany has taken his career to a new level.
Diaz credited the tactical clarity and the strong bond within the squad for his ability to produce under pressure on the biggest stage.
Reflecting on his transfer and his current physical condition, Diaz told ESPN: “Deciding to join Bayern was the right choice. I’m really happy and I enjoy every match. I feel great, I’m in good shape, and that means I’m ready to help the team. We have a clear plan, we’re a very close-knit group, and that shows on the pitch.”
Mastering the Bernabeu game plan
Bayern’s success in Madrid was the result of a meticulous tactical setup that neutralized the hosts while allowing Diaz to exploit spaces in transition.
Despite the victory, however, the forward admitted there was a sense of missed opportunity regarding the narrow margin of their lead ahead of the return leg in Bavaria.
Analyzing the match and the execution of their strategy, Diaz added: “We’d already analyzed Real Madrid, and the move [regarding the opening goal] went precisely as we might deliberate. We felt extra comfy as the sport progressed, gained the ball again extra usually and managed the sport higher. That is what we love to do.
“We’re very completely satisfied, however we’re left with a slight feeling of disappointment that we may have scored one or two extra targets. We performed an incredible match towards a really powerful opponent.”
Treble chase intensifies in Bavaria
Bayern return to home motion away at St Pauli holding a commanding nine-point lead in the Bundesliga, however their focus should stay sharp with a DFB-Pokal semifinal towards Bayer Leverkusen approaching on April 22.
Earlier than that essential cup tie, Diaz and his teammates should end the job towards Madrid to safe a spot within the Champions League closing 4. Sustaining this elite degree of efficiency is significant for the winger as he units his sights on a historic treble.
