Liverpool, off to one of their best-ever season starts, are now struggling with a big injury list as five key players are sidelined. Facing a busy fixture schedule, they will need all the reinforcements they can get. With Diogo Jota out due to an injury sustained in the recent 2-1 victory over Chelsea, striker Darwin Nunez has been thrust into the spotlight.
However, Arne Slot has raised questions about Nunez’s suitability as a No.9, suggesting he may not be the ideal replacement for Jota in Liverpool’s 4-3-3 formation, where the Portuguese forward has been the preferred choice.
Jota’s injury seemed like a prime opportunity for Nunez, who led the line in Liverpool’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal on Sunday. However, ahead of Wednesday evening’s Carabao Cup clash with Brighton, Slot has expressed doubts about Nunez’s suitability for the central striker role.
Arne Slot about Nunez
Since his £85 million move from Benfica in June 2022 and earning £140,000 per week, Nunez has alternated between central and left-wing positions for Liverpool. With 35 goals and 19 assists in 106 appearances across all competitions, his impact is evident, yet his definitive role within the squad remains uncertain.
“You always need the player to buy in because you can give him the right sessions, but if he doesn’t give everything then it is very difficult for him to do what he did. Also with him it was a good thing his ban for the Uruguay team was cancelled so he could play two games there, that probably helped for him to play the way he did – and I am not talking about the quality he played with, but the intensity he played with.”
“He scored a goal, which was vital, but his work-rate was also really good and he’s not played that many games with us,” “So with him there is, like the others, room for improvement in co-operation with some of the other players, but that’s normal. He’s very good and it’s pleasing to see that after a difficult start.”
Arne Slot speaking on pre-match conference via Liverpoolfc.com
Nunez’s recent performances highlight his commitment and intensity, with a vital goal and impressive work-rate showing his growth. Despite a challenging start, Nunez shows clear potential to improve further and strengthen his connections with teammates.
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Nunez is finding his stride this season with Liverpool, recently scoring the decisive goal against RB Leipzig for his second Champions League goal of the season. Known for his relentless work rate, the Uruguay international earned high praise from Slot ahead of the Arsenal clash.
