By Victor Kanayo
Assailants have finally released Luis Manuel Díaz, the father of Liverpool star Luis Diaz, kidnapped in Colombia last month.
Confirming the release via a statement on Thursday evening, the Colombia Football Federation said, “The Colombian Football Federation thanks the National Government, the Military Forces and the National Police, as well as all the institutions and officials that made the release of Luís Manuel Díaz, father of our player Luís Díaz, possible.
“Football as a sporting discipline symbolizes talent, dedication, teamwork and the intrinsic values of human beings. In Colombia it must continue to be a benchmark for entertainment, healthy competition, unity and joy.
“Therefore, we insist on the need to maintain this activity, as well as those who are involved in it, in the sporting and administrative part and their families, outside of any scenario other than sports.
“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!”
Both Lius parents who were kidnapped exacly on October 28, 2023, with his mother Cilenis Marulanda were released shortly afterwards, but his father remaining hostage until November 9, 2023.
Luis Manuel Diaz has been handed over to a UN humanitarian commission, representatives from the Catholic church and medical officials, according to re
