Liverpool striker debate: Controversial icon speaks what everyone’s thinking

Former Manchester United forward Michael Owen states the obvious, asking fans to keep their hope for Darwin Nunez in check

Liverpool ambassador Michael Owen believes Liverpool fans should come to terms with how Darwin Nunez plays as a main striker. Owen has a knack for stating the obvious as he told fans that last season’s issues can continue with Nunez.

Darwin had a mixed season with Liverpool which turned into a nightmare in the end as he faced severe criticism. The Uruguay international reacted by blocking several social media accounts and removing pictures related to the club from his Instagram.

The 24-year-old faced criticism for being too wasteful in front of goal despite other Liverpool attackers facing a similar problem. The Reds faced dire consequences due to the complacency and lack of composure as they crashed out of major titles.

Owen told the Liverpool Echo that fans should lose hope in Nunez if he continues to make the same mistakes next season. He said:

“People are really hopeful that he could turn into a top player because obviously, they see some attributes that are phenomenal and hard to teach. But I think if he continues like he is now, I think people will probably just accept that that’s what he’s going to be forever. When I first saw him, I thought, geez, he’s raw. I expected it obviously. I knew his age, but I expected that of a younger player. That he’s going to learn more about the game and the role and things like that. But with his age, you think to yourself, well, if he’s not learned it by now and I’ve been saying it for a couple of years now, but probably I’m starting to think that what you see is what you get now.”

Despite the criticism that arise from actual issues with composure, Nunez has enjoyed success and productivity at Liverpool last season. The Uruguay international made 54 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool last season, contributing 18 goals and providing 13 assists.

Legendary manager Jurgen Klopp played a very direct and fluid style of football which is different from his Liverpool successor. New head coach Arne Slot prefers tactics that focus on the build-up and a less direct style with the same philosophy.

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Darwin could improve significantly in the new structure as he has shown his clinical finishing with the national team. We believe that Owen should follow international football apart from his national team to see that Darwin is clinical. However, there is an issue of language barrier that also plays a role in his struggle at Liverpool. While fans are wary of Darwin’s progress, they are optimistic about the changes under Slot.