Join AI Pro

Dedication in the Face of Adversity

Diaz’s skill on the pitch is undoubted, but it was his goal against Luton that etched a memorable moment in the annals of football. Scoring in the dying minutes of the game, Diaz’s 95th minute equaliser was more than just a point-saver for Liverpool; it was a poignant message of hope and resilience as the Colombian star dedicated his goal to his father, who has been tragically kidnapped, with an undershirt bearing the heartfelt plea, “Freedom for Papa”.

A Son’s Plea for His Father’s Freedom

The gravity of Diaz’s situation came to the forefront when he released a statement, a plea for the safe return of his father. Addressing the Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional (ELN), the group allegedly responsible for the abduction, Diaz’s words transcended the boundaries of sport, touching the hearts of many. He spoke not as the celebrated footballer but as a son, Lucho Diaz, deeply concerned for the well-being of his father, Luis Manuel Diaz. His words, brimming with emotion and worry, echoed the sentiments of a family in distress and a community rallying for justice.

The English translation

Today the soccer player is not speaking to you, today Lucho Diaz, the son of Luis Manuel Diaz, is speaking to you. Mane my dad, he is a tireless worker, our pillar in the family and he is kidnapped. I ask the ELN for the prompt release of my father, and I ask international organizations to intercede for his freedom.
Every second, every minute our anguish grows; My mother, my brothers and I are desperate, distressed and without words to describe what we are feeling. This suffering will only end when we have him back home. I beg you to release him immediately, respecting his integrity and ending this painful wait as soon as possible.
In the name of love and compassion, we ask that you reconsider your actions and allow us to recover him. I thank Colombians and the international community for the support received, thank you for so many demonstrations of affection and solidarity in this difficult time that many families in my country find themselves living.
LUIS FERNANDO DÍAZ MARULANDA

The Harrowing Ordeal Back Home

In a distressing turn of events, both of Diaz’s parents were kidnapped in Colombia, with his mother, Cilenis Marulanda, thankfully rescued last weekend. The search for Diaz’s father, however, continues. Colombian authorities, who confirmed the involvement of a unit associated with the ELN, are relentlessly working towards his safe return. ELN’s representative, Juan Carlos Cuellar, announced in a community meeting that Diaz’s father would be freed “as soon as possible”, a statement relayed by Reuters that offers a glimmer of hope in a dire situation.

A Nation and a Community in Solidarity

Diaz’s ordeal has not only drawn attention to his personal plight but also spotlighted the broader issues of safety and security in Colombia. His call for help has resonated beyond borders, with international associations urged to step in and facilitate the safe release of his father. The overwhelming support from Colombians and the international community alike stands as a testament to the unifying power of humanity in times of crisis.

Join AI Pro