Some Liverpool players were due back at the AXA Training Center last Friday but the club immediately canceled those plans when the news of Diogo Jota's death emerged the previous day.

A handful of players were scheduled to return to training for tests on July 4 but the decision was swiftly taken that all players would return this week instead.

Following Jota's death, a staggered return was planned from Monday (July 7) before that was again pushed back to Tuesday (July 8) after Arne Slot and a number of Liverpool players attended Jota and his brother's funeral in Gondomar, on the outskirts of Porto, on Saturday (July 5).

Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson were among the Liverpool players who were pictured arriving at Liverpool's training ground on Tuesday for the first day of pre-season.

Slot, Robertson, and FSG's CEO of football Michael Edwards journeyed to Anfield later in the day to add their contributions to Jota's memorial outside the stadium.

Robertson left a message alongside a bouquet of flowers, which read: “Our hearts are broken. But feeling very grateful for the memories you gave us all. I will miss you. Love you, brother. Robbo.”

Slot, alongside his wife, laid a bunch of flowers and a card at the memorial. “Diogo, we had the same dream and we fulfilled it together. Andre and yourself will always be in our hearts,” read the card, which was signed by Slot’s family.

Edwards, the CEO of Football for Fenway Sports Group, left a card that read: “With love and remembrance. In honour of Diogo Jota - down to earth, determined, a great finisher, and above all, loved and respected by all who knew him. He gave everything to the team with quiet strength and unwavering humility.

“His impact reached far beyond the pitch. Our thoughts are with his family and everyone who held him dear. Rest in Peace, Diogo.”

Arne Slot and his wife observe the Jota memorial outside Anfield

Spanish police believe that Jota was behind the wheel when the vehicle that he was traveling in last Thursday blew a tire, ultimately killing the Liverpool forward and his younger brother.

The pair were making their way back to Liverpool by road ahead of the start of pre-season training; Jota had opted against flying on medical advice after undergoing lung surgery earlier in the summer.

The official report into the crash has not yet been completed, but a statement from Spanish police on Tuesday (July 8) gave an update on where things stand.

In its second official statement regarding the crash, the Spanish Civil Guard said: “The expert report is still being worked on and finalized. Among other things traffic police from the Zamora branch of the Civil Guard are studying the tread marked by one of the wheels of the vehicle. Everything is also pointing to a possible high excess of speed over the permitted speed on that stretch of the motorway.

“All the tests carried out for the moment point to the driver of the crash vehicle being Diogo Jota. The expert police report when it is finalized will be handed over to a court in Puebla de Sanabria.”

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Kyle Ingram-Baldwin was described as "the most amazing man" by his wife

Kyle Ingram-Baldwin was described as "the most amazing man" by his wife

Liverpool fan channel Redmen TV has unveiled a wall of condolence in tribute to Diogo Jota near Anfield.

The YouTubers announced the news on Tuesday, as Jota’s official book of condolence was closed at Anfield. The book was opened within hours of the Portugal forward’s passing last Thursday, along with his brother Andre Silva.

Fans still wishing to write a message can head to Sybil Road, where the words ‘FOREVER 20’ have been painted onto a black wall. Pens are available for supporters to convey a message or tribute. Located a stone’s throw from Anfield, Redmen TV uploaded several images on social media of fans signing the wall. “Please feel free to come down and leave a message if you like,” it added in a separate post on X.

It comes as Liverpool artist John Culshaw confirmed he plans to begin painting a mural for Jota next week.

Liverpool remains a club in mourning following the tragic passing of Jota last week. The 28-year-old had been en route to England to begin pre-season training on Monday. After the heartbreaking news, the training was postponed until Tuesday, with the squad greeted at the AXA Training Centre by banners left by fans commemorating Jota’s life.

A few hours later, Andy Robertson, Arne Slot, and Michael Edwards led a delegation from the club that left floral tributes at the incredible mural that has been built up outside Anfield’s Main Stand.

“Our hearts are broken,” Robertson wrote in a card. “But feeling very grateful for the memories you gave us all. I will miss you. Love you, brother. Robbo.”

The Scotland defender attended Jota’s wedding just a few weeks ago, underling the tragic and untimely nature of his death.

Liverpool broadcast a free-to-air tribute to Jota on Monday night on LFCTV, as the club tries to return to some semblance of normality.

Andy Robertson pays tribute to Jota outside Anfield

"I’m still numb,” admitted John Aldridge, who fought to hold back the tears on air. "I can't get my head around the enormity of what’s happened.

“From the former players, we’re absolutely smashed; we can’t believe what has happened to one of our players who was a hero.

"The manner in which he passed away, you’re looking at his three kids, his wife and his mum and dad. It just rips your heart apart.”

The club is yet to confirm whether it will play its pre-arranged friendly Preston North End on Sunday.

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Luis Diaz continues to dominate Liverpool’s transfer rumors as the Reds return for pre-season training.

Given the tragic circumstances surrounding the team’s delayed start, few photos emerged of the squad at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre on Tuesday, so it’s not clear if Diaz was among those involved in the first sessions.

But he has been making headlines while away from Merseyside. Speaking to Colombian influencer Mauricio Gomez, the 28-year-old had this to say on his Liverpool future: “We’re there, negotiating. We’ll see what can be achieved, for us and for the club. We’ll try to do our best and make the best decision.

Pushed on whether Barcelona or Al-Nassr are possible destinations for Diaz, he replied; “We’re in the process of negotiations, talking with the club, with Liverpool, with everyone who’s approaching us.

“But I’m very calm where I am, you know, very happy. Trying to make the best decision, now.”

It comes amid a plethora of reports from Spain that Diaz that Barcelona will push to sign Diaz this summer. The club haven’t exactly been shy in expressing its admiration for the Liverpool winger, something sporting director Deco has publicly acknowledged.

Diaz has been linked with a move to Barcelona (Image: Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Spanish outlet Cadena SER claims a “gentleman's agreement” is in place between the player and Liverpool that an offer in excess of €80 million ($94M/£69M) will be accepted.

It comes after Nico Williams’ potential move from Athletic Bilbao was ruled out last week when he signed a new long-term contract at the Basque club. Now Barca must direct its attention elsewhere.

AS reports the Spanish champions are working with Diaz’s agent to agree a “draft contract.” Although the attacker would demand a compensation clause in case his registration cannot be agreed in time.

Diaz could have played his final match for Liverpool (Image: Getty Images)

It's a problem that has troubled Barcelona in recent years, forcing the club to make future-based commercial deals just to fund transfers which are then approved by La Liga.

The report adds Diaz is keen on joining Hansi Flick’s side and has always been Deco’s preferred signing. He could cost Barcelona around €70M ($82M/£60M).

Another Spanish outlet, Sport, states Diaz will make his desire to leave clear after reporting back for preseason. It also claims Barcelona is confident it can sign the Colombian and contract negotiations are expected to be straightforward.

Diaz considers “his time in England over and is ready to start a new adventure,” but there is an expectation that the transfer saga won’t be wrapped up quickly, adds the report.

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A round-up of the latest news from around the Premier League

A round-up of the latest news from around the Premier League

LFC Globe https://mail.lfcglobe.co.uk/ Liverpool FC News Sat, 21 Jun 2025 14:24:29 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://lfcglobe.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/cropped-LFC_globe_symbol_red-32x32.png LFC Globe https://mail.lfcglobe.co.uk/ 32 32 Liverpool Sign Florian Wirtz https://lfcglobe.co.uk/liverpool-sign-florian-wirtz/ https://lfcglobe.co.uk/liverpool-sign-florian-wirtz/#disqus_thread Sat, 21 Jun 2025 14:24:28 +0000 https://lfcglobe.co.uk/?p=105703 Liverpool have signed midfielder Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen. The 22-year-old German midfielder signed a £116 million contract with the Reds to become the highest-paid player in British football.  “I'm really excited to have a new adventure in front of me,” Wirtz said. “This was also a big point of my thoughts: that I want […]

This article (Liverpool Sign Florian Wirtz) was originally published on LFC Globe. Follow us on Twitter for all the latest Liverpool FC news.

]]> https://lfcglobe.co.uk/liverpool-sign-florian-wirtz/feed/ 0 2025-26 EPL Schedule Takes Shape https://lfcglobe.co.uk/2025-26-epl-schedule-takes-shape/ https://lfcglobe.co.uk/2025-26-epl-schedule-takes-shape/#disqus_thread Sun, 15 Jun 2025 17:19:17 +0000 https://lfcglobe.co.uk/?p=105700 There is no rest for the weary as the EPL has released the tentative dates and fixtures for Liverpool's title defence in the 2025-26 season. There are 38 Premier League games on the provisional schedule, excluding the Community Shield match. They include 33 weekend matches and 5 matches that fall on weekdays. The EPL season […]

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]]> https://lfcglobe.co.uk/2025-26-epl-schedule-takes-shape/feed/ 0 Liverpool Sign Jeremie Frimpong https://lfcglobe.co.uk/liverpool-sign-jeremie-frimpong/ https://lfcglobe.co.uk/liverpool-sign-jeremie-frimpong/#disqus_thread Mon, 02 Jun 2025 01:53:17 +0000 https://lfcglobe.co.uk/?p=105692 Liverpool did not wait long to bolster their roster after winning the Premier League title. The Reds signed Jeremie Frimpong from Byran Leverkusen. “It went quite easy,” Frimpong said. “Liverpool came and said they had interest, and obviously for me it was a no-brainer. “For me, it was like, ‘Whatever you guys do, just get […]

This article (Liverpool Sign Jeremie Frimpong) was originally published on LFC Globe. Follow us on Twitter for all the latest Liverpool FC news.

]]> https://lfcglobe.co.uk/liverpool-sign-jeremie-frimpong/feed/ 0 Brighton vs Liverpool - Limping Across The Finish Line: Liverpool Falls To Brighton 3-2 https://lfcglobe.co.uk/brighton-vs-liverpool-limping-across-the-finish-line-liverpool-falls-to-brighton-3-2/ https://lfcglobe.co.uk/brighton-vs-liverpool-limping-across-the-finish-line-liverpool-falls-to-brighton-3-2/#disqus_thread Wed, 21 May 2025 15:39:12 +0000 https://lfcglobe.co.uk/?p=105686 For the second time in as many games, Liverpool could not hold a second-half lead. This time they surrendered goals in the 69th and 85th minutes to go down to defeat 3-2 vs. a Brighton side who admittedly played well all game. First Half Cody Gakpo nearly scored in the first minute, but he put […]

This article (Brighton vs Liverpool - Limping Across The Finish Line: Liverpool Falls To Brighton 3-2) was originally published on LFC Globe. Follow us on Twitter for all the latest Liverpool FC news.

]]> https://lfcglobe.co.uk/brighton-vs-liverpool-limping-across-the-finish-line-liverpool-falls-to-brighton-3-2/feed/ 0 Brighton vs Liverpool - Monday Night Football: Liverpool Travel To Brighton For Final Away Test https://lfcglobe.co.uk/brighton-vs-liverpool-monday-night-football-liverpool-travel-to-brighton-for-final-away-test/ https://lfcglobe.co.uk/brighton-vs-liverpool-monday-night-football-liverpool-travel-to-brighton-for-final-away-test/#disqus_thread Mon, 19 May 2025 19:09:37 +0000 https://lfcglobe.co.uk/?p=105680 Liverpool will take a trip to the seaside on Monday May 19th for their final away match of the season as they face Brighton. The Reds are winless since claiming the EPL title so they will be looking for 3 points to build momentum for the offseason. News & Notes A lot has been going […]

This article (Brighton vs Liverpool - Monday Night Football: Liverpool Travel To Brighton For Final Away Test) was originally published on LFC Globe. Follow us on Twitter for all the latest Liverpool FC news.

]]> https://lfcglobe.co.uk/brighton-vs-liverpool-monday-night-football-liverpool-travel-to-brighton-for-final-away-test/feed/ 0 Liverpool vs Arsenal - Liverpool Seek Improvement https://lfcglobe.co.uk/liverpool-vs-arsenal-liverpool-seek-improvement/ https://lfcglobe.co.uk/liverpool-vs-arsenal-liverpool-seek-improvement/#disqus_thread Sat, 10 May 2025 06:00:00 +0000 https://lfcglobe.co.uk/?p=105676 It usually has huge implications when the top two teams on the EPL table meet this late in the season. Not this time. That's because the Reds have already wrapped up the title when Liverpool and Arsenal square off at Anfield on May 11th. However, they will still want to play better than they did […]

This article (Liverpool vs Arsenal - Liverpool Seek Improvement) was originally published on LFC Globe. Follow us on Twitter for all the latest Liverpool FC news.

]]> https://lfcglobe.co.uk/liverpool-vs-arsenal-liverpool-seek-improvement/feed/ 0 Alexander-Arnold Leaving Liverpool https://lfcglobe.co.uk/alexander-arnold-leaving-liverpool/ https://lfcglobe.co.uk/alexander-arnold-leaving-liverpool/#disqus_thread Tue, 06 May 2025 18:44:37 +0000 https://lfcglobe.co.uk/?p=105672 Trent Alexander-Arnold is leaving Liverpool, the club announced on May 5th. Alexander-Arnold has been a lifer for the Reds, joining the Academy at the age of 6 and progressing through the ranks until he made his debut with the Reds in 2016. Since then, he has made 352 appearances with Liverpool, earning several individual and […]

This article (Alexander-Arnold Leaving Liverpool) was originally published on LFC Globe. Follow us on Twitter for all the latest Liverpool FC news.

]]> https://lfcglobe.co.uk/alexander-arnold-leaving-liverpool/feed/ 0 Chelsea vs Liverpool - Sluggish Reds Fall To Chelsea https://lfcglobe.co.uk/chelsea-vs-liverpool-sluggish-reds-fall-to-chelsea/ https://lfcglobe.co.uk/chelsea-vs-liverpool-sluggish-reds-fall-to-chelsea/#disqus_thread Tue, 06 May 2025 18:40:19 +0000 https://lfcglobe.co.uk/?p=105668 Liverpool suffered a Premier League celebration hangover as they surrendered an early goal and could never recover during a 3-1 loss to Chelsea.  First Half  Salah forced a Chelsea save in the opening seconds of the match, but it was Chelsea who scored. Enzo Fernández found the back of the net from close range in […]

This article (Chelsea vs Liverpool - Sluggish Reds Fall To Chelsea) was originally published on LFC Globe. Follow us on Twitter for all the latest Liverpool FC news.

]]> https://lfcglobe.co.uk/chelsea-vs-liverpool-sluggish-reds-fall-to-chelsea/feed/ 0 Liverpool vs Tottenham - One Point Away: Liverpool Host Spurs With Title In Sight https://lfcglobe.co.uk/liverpool-vs-tottenham-one-point-away-liverpool-host-spurs-with-title-in-sight/ https://lfcglobe.co.uk/liverpool-vs-tottenham-one-point-away-liverpool-host-spurs-with-title-in-sight/#disqus_thread Sun, 27 Apr 2025 11:27:27 +0000 https://lfcglobe.co.uk/?p=105661 Liverpool are one point away from clinching the Premier League Title, meaning they are just a single result away with four games remaining. The Reds can finish the job on Sunday, April 27th, when they host Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield. Various players and manager Arne Slot spoke about the importance of this match and what […]

This article (Liverpool vs Tottenham - One Point Away: Liverpool Host Spurs With Title In Sight) was originally published on LFC Globe. Follow us on Twitter for all the latest Liverpool FC news.

]]> https://lfcglobe.co.uk/liverpool-vs-tottenham-one-point-away-liverpool-host-spurs-with-title-in-sight/feed/ 0 Leicester vs Liverpool - Reds To Face Foxes For Easter Sunday Showdown https://lfcglobe.co.uk/leicester-vs-liverpool-reds-to-face-foxes-for-easter-sunday-showdown/ https://lfcglobe.co.uk/leicester-vs-liverpool-reds-to-face-foxes-for-easter-sunday-showdown/#disqus_thread Sun, 20 Apr 2025 14:36:29 +0000 https://lfcglobe.co.uk/?p=105653 Liverpool are on the verge of history. They could wrap up their 20th League title with a win at King Power Stadium against Leicester City today, on Easter Sunday, and an Arsenal loss. In all, Liverpool need a combined six points over the final six matches to secure the title. With Virgil van Dijk and […]

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]]> https://lfcglobe.co.uk/leicester-vs-liverpool-reds-to-face-foxes-for-easter-sunday-showdown/feed/ 0

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Arne Slot and Michael Edwards have laid flowers at Anfield in tribute to Diogo Jota after the Liverpool forward tragically passed away aged 28

Arne Slot and Michael Edwards have laid flowers at Anfield in tribute to Diogo Jota after the Liverpool forward tragically passed away aged 28

Крайний нападающий «Ливерпуля» Луис Диас «мечтает» стать футболистом «Барселоны» и, в отличие от вингера «Атлетика» Нико Уильямса, готов не включать в контракт с сине-гранатовыми пункт о его досрочном расторжении в случае, если они не смогут зарегистрировать его на сезон из-за финансовых проблем.

Liverpool Set Firm Price as Napoli’s Darwin Nunez Bid Rejected Liverpool have turned down a €55 million bid from Napoli for Darwin Nunez, according to a report from Anfield Watch. The Serie A champions remain highly interested in the Uruguayan forward, but their offer, which included €5 million in add-ons and a wage package of […]

The post Liverpool Reject £47.5million Bid for Darwin Nunez – Report appeared first on anfieldindex.com.

Liverpool have turned down a €55 million bid from Napoli for Darwin Nunez, according to a report from Anfield Watch. The Serie A champions remain highly interested in the Uruguayan forward, but their offer, which included €5 million in add-ons and a wage package of €5 million per year for Nunez, fell well short of Liverpool’s valuation.

There is no great surprise in the Reds rejecting such an offer. While Nunez has shown flashes of brilliance, especially under Jürgen Klopp, his transition into Arne Slot’s system has been less seamless. According to Anfield Watch, “Liverpool are open to selling him, too… it’s felt by all that it’s time to move on.”

Yet the club are not about to let their No.9 leave cheaply. Having invested an initial £64 million potentially rising to £85 million when they signed him from Benfica in 2022, Liverpool will be keen to recoup a significant portion of that outlay. Anfield Watch states that “they would want a substantial amount more than this in order to sell.”

Past Interest Sets the Benchmark

The figure Napoli put forward is not the first significant bid Liverpool have received for Nunez. As Anfield Watch previously revealed, “Liverpool received an offer for Nunez back in January… from Al-Hilal… that was also rejected – and was for a lot more than €55m.” That bid was reportedly worth £70 million.

Liverpool had strong reasons to keep Nunez then. The team were in the thick of a title challenge under new manager Arne Slot and could not afford to lose attacking depth mid-season. But with the Premier League trophy now secured, the landscape has shifted.

Despite this, Liverpool’s asking price will remain high. It is expected that a bid somewhere between the rejected €55 million and January’s £70 million could trigger serious talks.

Napoli’s Transfer Strategy Could Shape Outcome

Napoli’s rejected €60 million offer for Victor Osimhen by Galatasaray, reported by Gianluca Di Marzio, adds another layer to this evolving situation. Osimhen has a €75 million release clause that Saudi club Al-Nassr have reportedly agreed to meet. Should that move go through, Napoli will have both the motive and means to increase their offer for Nunez.

However, Anfield Watch adds that Napoli are also tracking Lorenzo Lucca. The outcome of that pursuit may impact their willingness to push harder for Nunez.

As it stands, the message from Anfield is clear: Liverpool are not desperate sellers, and Nunez will not leave unless a financially compelling offer lands on the table.

Slot’s System and Nunez’s Uncertain Future

While Nunez remains a physically gifted and unpredictable presence up front, his stylistic fit in Slot’s fluid, controlled attacking approach has not been ideal. His return of goals has not always matched the chances he generates. That dissonance may be driving Liverpool’s openness to a sale.

But they will only proceed if the numbers align. As of now, “Nunez is staying put. At least until a bigger offer arrives.”

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

There’s no denying Darwin Nunez has been one of the most polarising figures in recent Liverpool memory. The raw potential is undeniable. Pace, power, and the ability to conjure chaos in the final third. Yet fans have often been left frustrated by the inconsistency in front of goal and questionable decision-making.

Under Arne Slot, where structure and precision appear more integral than in Klopp’s transitional-heavy approach, it makes sense that the club are re-evaluating Nunez’s long-term fit. Still, letting him go for a cut price feels rash. The €55 million from Napoli was rightly dismissed. This is a striker with prime years ahead of him and international pedigree.

If Liverpool do part ways with Nunez, the replacement must be ready-made for Slot’s system.

There’s still a player in Darwin — and if Napoli or another club come close to the £70 million mark, Liverpool may just shake hands and move on.

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Andy Robertson, Arne Slot and Michael Edwards laid tributes to Diogo Jota outside Anfield on Tuesday as Liverpool continues to mourn the untimely and tragic death of the Portugal forward.

Jota passed away on Thursday following a car crash in the Zamora region in northern Spain, which also devastatingly claimed the life of his younger brother Andre Silva. It is understood the siblings were driving to catch the ferry back to England ahead of the start of preseason training, which was originally scheduled for Monday.

That was pushed back to Tuesday in light of the devastating news, with the majority of the squad flying out to Portugal over the weekend for the brothers’ funeral. In the meantime, thousands of tributes have been laid outside Anfield, and a book of condolence was opened at the ground.

Robertson, Slot and Edwards were among those in Portugal and, on Tuesday, laid flowers at the makeshift memorial outside Anfield.

“Our hearts are broken,” Robertson wrote in a card. “But feeling very grateful for the memories you gave us all. I will miss you. Love you, brother. Robbo.”

The Scotland defender last week posted a poignant message following the news of Jota’s death, and referenced their shared enjoyment of following the darts and attending the horse racing. Robertson was also among those who attended Jota’s wedding just 11 days before his tragic death.

Arne Slot and his wife observe the Jota memorial outside Anfield

Slot, alongside his wife, laid a bunch of flowers and a card at the memorial. “Diogo, we had the same dream and we fulfilled it together. Andre and yourself will always be in our hearts,” read the card, which was signed by Slot’s family.

Edwards, the CEO of Football for Fenway Sports Group, left a card that read: “With love and remembrance. In honour of Diogo Jota - down to earth, determined, a great finisher, and above all, loved and respected by all who knew him. He gave everything to the team with quiet strength and unwavering humility.

“His impact reached far beyond the pitch. Our thoughts are with his family and everyone who held him dear. Rest in Peace, Diogo.”

Michael Edwards's touching tribute to Diogo Jota

Robertson, Slot and Edwards were also pictured taking in the tributes and reading the cards and messages which have been left at Anfield.

It comes just hours after Liverpool’s Women’s side laid a floral tribute at the memorial, courtesy of Grace Fisk and Gemma Bonner, who also signed the book of condolence.

Liverpool broadcast a free-to-air program in memory of Jota on Monday night, as the club slowly returns to some semblance of normality.

There is no update yet on whether Sunday’s prearranged friendly against Preston North End will go ahead as scheduled.

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В ближайшее время крайний нападающий «Ливерпуля» Луис Диас намерен обсудить с мерсисайдцами своё будущее в клубе.

Xabi Alonso is granting former Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold the leeway to dazzle in his revamped Real Madrid strategy.

At the helm of Madrid, Alonso is gradually embedding his vision and tactics into the squad amid the Club World Cup action. His players are evidently upping their game as the tournament progresses, and now brace themselves for a formidable clash with Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinal at MetLife Stadium on Wednesday.

This fixture will prove a decisive moment for Alonso's refreshed blueprint for the team, with a pivotal change coming in the form of increased attacking responsibilities for his full-backs, including England's Alexander-Arnold who has already notched up an assist.

The benefits also ripple through to Fran Garcia, a product of the club's youth system, who has found a renewed vigor under Alonso's guidance.

From day one, Alonso has instilled the players with assurance and the latitude to unwind and express themselves on the pitch, according to Garcia.

Spain international Garcia said: "The coach, as much to Trent as to me, is trying to give us the confidence to play well so we can help the team as much as possible. That helps you perform in the way that you need at Real Madrid.

Xabi Alonso is trying to get the best out of Alexander-Arnold (Image: Getty Images)

"Madrid demands of you that you compete and that you win. It is the best club in the world.

"And in this tournament we are seeing progression, the things we are working on with the coach, the image is becoming a little clearer with each game.

"This has been such a valuable experience because we are together, the squad can improve and grow while we are here, learning from the coach.

"The level in this tournament has been very high, not just the European teams but the South American and Saudi Arabian ones, too. It's been a very positive experience so far."

Madrid sailed through its quarterfinal clash with Borussia Dortmund, clinching a 3-2 victory, yet it nearly let its dominance slip away in a nail-biting conclusion.

With Kylian Mbappe back to full fitness, Garcia is optimistic about the boost he'll provide ahead of their showdown with Paris Saint Germain, although he emphasizes the need for unwavering concentration until the final whistle.

Garcia remarked: "Dortmund was a game of the highest level, a Champions League game, and we have done well to prove that Real Madrid were better.

"I had the good fortune to see Mbappe's goal from behind and it was a treat. Hopefully, he is feeling well, gathering strength, and in the end, he will help us a lot."

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Former Liverpool youth player Harvey Blair has been encouraged to participate in preseason matches to keep pace with his Portsmouth colleagues.

Blair, who was part of Liverpool's renowned academy from under-12 level, transferred to Fratton Park last summer.

The 21-year-old forward made his senior debut for the Reds in October 2021 against Preston North End in the Carabao Cup and was a regular feature in Arne Slot's preseason line-up last summer, playing in friendlies against Preston, Real Betis, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Las Palmas. However, securing first-team appearances for Championship side Portsmouth has proven challenging, with only 12 appearances and one goal to his name last season.

As Blair works towards regaining full fitness following a hamstring injury sustained against Hull City on the final day of last season, his manager, John Mousinho, has urged him to play as many pre-season games as possible to prepare for the upcoming season.

"Harvey's doing well, but it's important for him to get back (as quickly as he can)," he told the Portsmouth News.

"He's been out for more than nine weeks now with a pretty severe hamstring tear. It was one where he did it in the challenger, rather than accelerating away from the challenge.

Harvey Blair is now on Portsmouth's roster (Image: Getty Images)

"We saw glimpses of what Harvey is capable of before that at the end of the season.

"He had that cameo against Millwall and then played against Sheffield Wednesday and scored.

"Even against Hull in getting injured he carried the ball 70 yards, leaving three or four players stood still.

"We know what Harvey is capable of and we want him to get back to that.

"The physical side is really important and he needs to get fit, because when he's been fit, he's looked good.

"I think we saw that in the Sheffield Wednesday game. If he falls off, he falls off without having the playing time, so it's absolutely fine.

"So we do need to get him up to scratch. We need him to play pre-season games, so he's ready to kick on."

Reflecting on his inaugural season at Fratton Park back in April, Blair stated: "It's been a rollercoaster season for me, but I just need to keep my head down, keep working hard and make sure next season I'm firing on all cylinders.

"All the lads have been unbelievable since the day I came in, welcomed me with open arms, and I couldn't ask for any more."

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Luis Diaz Set to Push for Liverpool Exit Amid Barcelona and Bayern Interest Luis Diaz is expected to inform Liverpool of his desire to leave the club as players return for pre-season training. According to Sport, the Colombian winger is prepared to begin the formal process of seeking a transfer away from Anfield, with Barcelona […]

The post Luis Diaz Has Asked to Leave Liverpool to Join Spanish Giants – Report appeared first on anfieldindex.com.

Luis Diaz is expected to inform Liverpool of his desire to leave the club as players return for pre-season training. According to Sport, the Colombian winger is prepared to begin the formal process of seeking a transfer away from Anfield, with Barcelona and Bayern Munich emerging as his top suitors.

The 28-year-old believes his “cycle” at Liverpool is over. It marks a significant shift in the summer narrative surrounding Arne Slot’s side, who are fresh off a title-winning campaign yet now face the prospect of losing one of their most dangerous attacking players.

Liverpool, for their part, have reportedly set an asking price of €80 million. While Bayern Munich have kept tabs on Diaz, it is Barcelona who are said to be leading the charge. However, the Spanish giants are not prepared to meet the Reds’ valuation, which they view as excessive.

Photo: IMAGO Financial Roadblock for Barcelona

Barcelona’s admiration for Diaz has been long-standing, but their financial reality presents a major obstacle. As Sport outlines, the Catalan club “aren’t willing to pay” the €80 million required, making any potential deal extremely difficult in its current form.

Despite this, Diaz appears determined to force the issue. Reports indicate that the Colombian international may use his talks today to push for Liverpool to lower their valuation in a bid to accelerate a move.

Some sources claim Diaz already has an agreement in principle with the club to leave, provided a suitable offer arrives. Still, that clause hinges on Liverpool receiving their full asking price, which remains unlikely under Barcelona’s current constraints.

Liverpool Stand Firm on Valuation

Liverpool have become known for their disciplined approach to the transfer market, and there is little expectation they will budge easily. The club have previously shown they are willing to keep hold of players even if it means letting them go for free at the end of their contracts.

“Liverpool aren’t a club that sells cheap,” notes Sport, adding, “They’ve shown a desire to hold into players for longer, if need be.” That precedent places Diaz in a difficult position. If his desire to leave is not met with serious bids, he may be left in limbo.

Whether Diaz’s reported request today leads to a softened stance from Liverpool, or a more aggressive posture from the player himself, remains to be seen.

What Next for Arne Slot and the Squad?

Slot’s first major challenge since winning the Premier League title could now revolve around managing an unsettled star. Diaz featured prominently under both Jurgen Klopp and Slot, but if the Colombian pushes harder for an exit, it could impact squad harmony.

Bayern’s hesitancy and Barcelona’s lack of funds leave limited pathways for Diaz. Unless a third-party club enters the race or Barcelona adjust their financial structure, the forward may find himself stuck at Anfield longer than intended.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As Liverpool fans, this is deeply frustrating. Diaz has been a standout player, and while his form has been inconsistent at times, his dynamism and work rate have never been in doubt. What hurts most is the timing. Fresh off a league title win and ready to build under a new manager, we’re already looking at losing a key first-teamer.

The reported €80 million valuation is fair given his age and profile. If Barcelona want him, they should pay up, not hope Liverpool roll over. We’ve seen it too many times before, big clubs trying to poach talent on the cheap. This club has moved beyond that.

Slot deserves a settled dressing room going into this season. The squad is already dealing with emotional strain following the tragic news about Diogo Jota. Distractions like this, especially self-inflicted ones, don’t help anyone.

If Diaz doesn’t want to be here, fair enough, but he must remain professional. And if Barcelona or Bayern really want him, they should meet the price. Otherwise, let him fight for his place under a manager who has proven he can win trophies.

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Andy Robertson has laid flowers at Anfield in tribute to Diogo Jota after the Liverpool forward passed away in a road traffic accident last week