Luis Díaz was one of FC Bayern’s top performers last season. However, things aren’t going quite as smoothly for the Colombian at the start of the new season. The 29-year-old is currently lacking his usual confidence, especially in front of the opponent’s goal.
This was particularly evident in the 2-1 win against SV Elversberg. Díaz didn’t enter the game until the second half and had a great chance to put his team ahead shortly afterward. After a pass from Michael Olise, he found himself almost completely unmarked in front of the goal, but failed to spot Harry Kane—who was also unmarked—and instead attempted a backheel shot. Goalkeeper Nicolas Kristof made the save.
His teammates’ reaction was clear. Kane could hardly believe the missed opportunity, and Josip Stanisic vociferously vented his frustration. Precisely because the score was 1-1 at that point, the squandered chance was met with widespread bewilderment.
According to SPORT1, the winger’s current situation has now become a topic of discussion within the club as well. Reportedly, there was already some discontent in the highest echelons of management following the 0–0 draw at Schalke—though this discontent was not directed exclusively at Díaz.
Kompany drops Díaz from the starting lineup for the first time
Vincent Kompany took clear action for the first time in Elversberg. While Díaz had previously started every competitive match, he initially had to take a seat on the bench against the newly promoted team. The plan seemed clear: the Colombian was supposed to provide a fresh boost later in the game with his speed and energy.
But even this move failed to produce the desired effect. Díaz carelessly squandered a great chance shortly after coming on as a substitute.
Nevertheless, Kompany sees no reason to fundamentally doubt his attacking player. “It’s just about the finish. His energy consistently creates danger. You have to earn those chances first, and he does that time and again with his deep runs and his activity,” the Bayern coach explained after the match.
Max Eberl also came to Díaz’s defense. “Lucho doesn’t have the momentum right now. He’s probably also thinking: Do I take it right away, or do I try again?” explained the sporting director.
Does Díaz need a longer break now?
The problem is obvious: Díaz continues to get into dangerous situations on a regular basis. His intensity, his runs, and his effort are all there. But when it comes to the final move, he’s currently lacking that fluidity.
Added to that is the heavy workload. During the upcoming international break, Díaz is expected to play two matches with Colombia in the U.S. Australia also awaits as an opponent in November. Long trips, jet lag, and additional games aren’t exactly ideal conditions for regaining fresh energy.
According to SPORT1, a longer break for Díaz could therefore be on the table. Bayern has already seen firsthand that a short break can have a positive effect on him.
In December 2025, Díaz was sidelined for a few days due to a red-card suspension in the Champions League and his fifth yellow card in the Bundesliga. Kompany explained at the time that the Colombian would be “away for a few days.” After the winter break, he returned in strong form.
It remains to be seen whether Bayern will take a similar approach this time. One thing is clear, however: a few missed chances have now become a genuine concern regarding his form. Kompany is demonstratively standing by Díaz—but he must now find a way to restore his star forward’s lost confidence.