Liverpool forward Luis Diaz is facing fierce criticism in both his native Colombia and the UK after footage emerged showing him dancing in a nightclub during a period of mourning for his teammate, Diogo Jota.
Jota and his brother André Silva tragically passed away last week, with the Liverpool squad attending a memorial service in Gondomar, Portugal, on Friday morning. However, Diaz was notably absent from the ceremony, reportedly due to commercial commitments in South America which, according to his representatives, could not be postponed.
Despite the explanation, video clips surfaced online showing the 28-year-old winger dancing at a nightclub during the same period. The footage quickly went viral and has sparked outrage among fans and commentators, many of whom viewed Diaz’s actions as insensitive.
The reaction has been particularly strong in Colombia, where Diaz is seen as one of the national team’s leading figures. Local media outlets questioned the optics of his decision, with headlines accusing him of showing a lack of respect during what was described as a moment of collective grief for Liverpool and the footballing world.
In England, supporters also expressed dismay. Diaz, who joined Liverpool from FC Porto in January 2022 for a reported £45 million plus add-ons, had reportedly developed a close bond with Jota. The Portuguese international played a key role in helping Diaz settle in Merseyside, having shared a common background at Porto before their respective moves to Anfield.
“Diogo was one of the first to make me feel welcome at Liverpool,” Diaz had said in previous interviews, referring to his early days in the Premier League.
Given their relationship, the Colombian international’s absence from the funeral and the subsequent images of him partying have drawn a sharp contrast that has not gone unnoticed by fans.
Liverpool Football Club has not publicly commented on the incident. However, the club did announce on Friday that it would continue to pay Jota’s salary to his family as a gesture of solidarity and remembrance.
The controversy now places Diaz under significant scrutiny ahead of Liverpool’s pre-season preparations. With the club community still grieving, many will be watching to see how the Colombian responds, both on and off the pitch.
