World Cup stars of the Bundesliga: Bayern Munich's Luis Díaz
After helping elevate Bayern Munich's attack to record-breaking levels in 2025/26, Colombia's Luis Díaz marked his debut at the FIFA World Cup finals with a goal and an assist, and has continued his fine form into the knockout rounds.
Name: Luis Díaz
Club: Bayern Munich
Nation: Colombia
International debut: 12 September 2018
Caps: 78
International goals: 23
Stats correct as of 03 July 2026
How was his 2025/26 season?
As maiden Bundesliga campaigns go, Díaz couldn't have wished for one much better. Colombia’s star forward struck 15 goals and provided 14 assists as Bayern succesfully defended their Bundesliga crown. The 29-year-old also played a major role in Vincent Kompany’s side making the UEFA Champions League semi-finals, scoring seven goals and creating a further three, in addition to his five goal involvements on their way to lifting the DFB Cup.
What he brings to the national team
Lining up on the left, often alongside former Bayern playmaker James Rodríguez, Díaz’s unpredictability makes him a nuisance for opposing defenders. The Colombian can produce moments of brilliance others are incapable of and is adept at scoring every type of goal.
Whether that's cutting in from the left, running in behind or scoring with his head, his attacking instincts proved crucial as Colombia topped Group K to advance to the latter rounds, with Díaz grabbing a goal and an assist on his World Cup debut in the opening 3-1 win over Uzbekistan. He was also hugely influential in Los Cafeteros' 1-0 win over Ghana in the round of 32, picking up the Man of the Match award.
What his coaches say
“He has given us his personality and his energy on the pitch. He has had many chances since he arrived and has created a lot for his teammates. He fits in really well with what we try to tell as a story on the pitch.” - Vincent Kompany
“He’s grown tremendously. The move to Germany has helped him. There are two spectacular players and great leaders there who I love: [Joshua] Kimmich and [Harry] Kane. Those two inspire and teach, and that has helped him.” - Colombia head coach Néstor Lorenzo
