The father of Liverpool forward Luis Diaz has been successfully rescued after being handed over to a group of United Nations representatives. Although both of Diaz’s parents were kidnapped in late October, his mother was promptly rescued. However, his father, Luis Manuel Diaz, endured nearly two weeks in captivity as negotiations between the UN, Colombian officials, and the responsible group—the Colombian rebel faction ELN—took place.
On Wednesday, it was disclosed that the ELN had agreed to the safe return of Luis Manuel Diaz, and the handover has now been completed. A statement from the Colombian Football Federation expressed gratitude to the National Government, Military Forces, National Police, and all involved institutions and officials for making the release possible.
The statement emphasized the significance of football as a sport that embodies talent, dedication, teamwork, and human values. It called for the continuation of football in Colombia as a symbol of entertainment, healthy competition, unity, and joy. The federation stressed the need to maintain the focus on the sporting aspects and the individuals and their families associated with it, free from any non-sporting scenarios.
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“Behind a ball, the dreams and illusions of boys and girls, young people, women, men and adult soccer players, their loved ones and an entire country roll. Football is passion in peace. Let no one ever think of attacking that reality again!”
Diaz has been training with Liverpool throughout the ordeal but has remained away from matchdays, with manager Jurgen Klopp keen to give the Colombian winger as much time as possible to heal mentally before even contemplating a return to competitive action.
Liverpool take on Toulouse in the Europa League on Thursday evening before turning their attention to this weekend’s Premier League clash with Brentford.