Earlier in the week, the distressing news about his parents being held hostage would have deeply affected the Colombian footballer.
While his mother was released promptly, his father remains in the custody of the Colombian terrorist group ELN, who kidnapped him on October 29.
On a more positive note, the BBC reported on Thursday that a member of ELN had stated that Luis Manuel Diaz would soon be released.
Jurgen Klopp, the manager of Liverpool, stated that the decision to play or not rests with the player himself, quoted by FOOTBALLDEN. He emphasized that if Diaz feels ready, he will join the team but will not be pressured to do so. Klopp indicated that they are waiting for further updates and will respect Diaz’s decision.
On Saturday morning, the Daily Star reported that ELN confirmed the initiation of the release process, providing a glimmer of hope.
Although the duration of the release process remains uncertain, the confirmation that it has commenced is a source of solace for Diaz. Whether he’ll be mentally prepared to participate in Sunday’s match against Luton Town will likely be determined on the day of the game.