The Senegalese international was probably one of the best players to have ever played for the club. At this peak, Mane was the epitome of Jurgen Klopp’s greatest era at the club.
When he was running at defences, you just had confidence that Liverpool were going to be able to win games consistently.
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He was always a player who brought a smile to the fans’ face during his time at Anfield.
Mane played with the boisterous youthful energy that makes football the ‘beautiful game.’ He was an intelligent player with incredible skills and the ability to torment any Premier League defender on his day.
Even though Liverpool have brought in some brilliant players to replace Mane since his departure from the club in Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo – it’s fair to say neither can really live up to the brilliance of the current Al Nassr star.
Mane was simply one of a kind. He was special. And Liverpool are still waiting for his replacement.
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Well, he may now finally be here.
Anfield Watch understands that Liverpool are long-term admirers of Assane Diao, who first caught the eye of the club’s scouts when he broke onto the scene at Real Betis.
Since then he has moved on to Como in Serie A and has been linked with a move to Liverpool again.
According to Anfield Watch’s understanding during his time at Betis, Liverpool scouts saw Diao as a ‘project’ player. Someone who could be ready for the first team after a couple of loan spells, rather than be an immediate option.
In an interview in the past, Diao confirmed that he would like to play for the Reds and that he is a fan of the club. Probably because of Mane?
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He’s also a Senegalese international, so you’d imagine one of the greatest players in the history of Senegal playing for Liverpool will have influenced his decision.
After a spectacular season coming to Como in the January window, Diao has struggled for consistency in this campaign. He’s been out injured for a considerable period, which has thwarted his momentum.
But he showcased why he’s a player of immense quality in Como’s spectacular victory over Pisa in the Serie A.
Diao broke the deadlock within the first few minutes of the game, marauding from the right-wing to cut onto his left-foot and bury the ball into the back of the net.
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He then set-up Como’s second goal of the game with a clever ball into the penalty area with his right foot.
The goal and the assist both showcased Diao’s strength. He’s a player who is comfortable playing on both sides and he’s even capable of playing through the middle.
At 20-years-old, he is a special talent who will likely be his country’s next superstar after Mane and now that he is getting back to fitness, he’s definitely ready to join Liverpool again.
The Reds need way more depth in attack. They need a player with the speed and directness Diao has.
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