In one year, Jürgen Klopp lost his magic trio. In 2022, Sadio Mané joined Bayern Munich, which he already left to sign for Al-Nassr. A year later, it was Roberto Firmino, who was less used, who left free to Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia. Mohamed Salah could follow the example of his two former teammates, he who has been flirted with by the Saudi Pro League for several months. But the residents of Anfield have resources. Last year, they bet on Darwin Nuñez, excellent in the Benfica jersey.
After a great year concluded with 32 goals and 4 assists in 40 appearances in all competitions (32 starts), the Uruguayan settled down with the Reds. The latter put 75 million euros on the table to secure his services. It is the same price as a certain Erling Haaland, who arrived the same season and to whom he has been compared. But his first year in England did not completely live up to expectations. He finished the season with 15 goals and 4 assists in 42 appearances, including 26 starts. It should be remembered that he missed three matches after headbutting Crystal Palace defender Joachim Andersen.
A highly anticipated season 2
He also suffered from the strong competition within the Mersey club. After a season of learning and discovery, Liverpool hoped that the former Benfica player would be more to their advantage. To get off to a good start, the Uruguayan decided to swap his number 27 for number 9. Liverpool also clarified on this subject: “Supporters who have already purchased new 2023-24 home and away jerseys printed with the name “Darwin” and the number “27” will be personally refunded by Nunez with a similar exchange for a “Darwin 9” jersey.”
A nice gesture from the footballer, who started the season as a substitute. Coming into play against Chelsea and Bournemouth, he opened his goal counter on the third day with a double against Newcastle on August 27. It was not until September 21 that he found the target again. It was in the Europa League against LASK. He did it again three days later in the Premier League against West Ham. Mute during four club matches, he scored against Toulouse then against Nottingham Forest this weekend.
Progress to be made despite obvious qualities
The player, who has currently totaled 4 assists in 11 matches in all competitions, including 7 starts, has scored 6 goals for club (he also has 2 goals in his last 2 selections, editor’s note). He displays the same passing times as last year at the same stage since he totaled 6 goals. He doesn’t do better or worse. Supporters and observers alike are still not forgiving. As evidenced by his big failure against Toulouse, which earned him criticism from Reds fans.
But the player, under contract until 2027, has the support of Jürgen Klopp. The German assured that he did not care about his colt’s failure. For a year, the Liverpool coach has been making numerous media outings to defend the Uruguayan, explaining that he does not calculate the number of goals and that he believes in him. A speech that must warm the heart of Darwin Nuñez. A player who has obvious qualities such as his speed or physical power but who still needs to improve in finishing and efficiency. It was one of his strong points at Benfica. It’s up to him to show Liverpool that he is a real killer in the box. Bournemouth, whom he will face on November 1 in the FA Cup, can be wary.
