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Darwin Núñez’s frustration was visible as he trudged off the pitch, his number lit up on the substitution board. A consoling pat from manager Arne Slot and an embrace with Cody Gakpo offered little solace. The Uruguayan striker’s struggles continued on a chilly night in Catalonia, as Liverpool scraped past Girona 1-0 in the Champions League.
While the victory, secured by Mohamed Salah’s pinpoint penalty, maintained Liverpool’s perfect record in Europe this season, Núñez’s form has raised eyebrows. With only one goal in his last ten appearances, he is under mounting pressure to deliver.
Photo: IMAGO
Missed Chances in Key Moments
Liverpool’s four “big chances” against Girona—two of which fell to Núñez—highlighted his lack of composure in front of goal. The striker completed just four of eight passes and won only one of four duels during his 71 minutes on the pitch. It wasn’t the clinical performance Liverpool needed.
When asked about Núñez’s confidence, Arne Slot was measured in his response:
“What I can agree on is that he missed a few chances. Then it’s always the question, ‘Does this have anything to do with low confidence or is this a situation where he’s in at the moment?’”
Photo: IMAGO
Slot added, “I think every striker all around the world has periods where every ball goes in, and sometimes he has a period when you try so hard but you’re not able to score. I would have loved to see Darwin score… but, unfortunately, he couldn’t.”
The absence of Diogo Jota, sidelined for two months due to injury, had presented Núñez with a prime opportunity to shine. Initial glimpses were promising—his lively cameos against Chelsea and RB Leipzig showed potential. However, his form has faltered, and the trust placed in him is beginning to waver.
Photo: IMAGO
Tactical Challenges
Slot’s tactical decisions have revealed deeper concerns. Against Bayer Leverkusen and Manchester City, he favoured Luis Díaz as a central forward over Núñez. This shift paid dividends, as Díaz’s versatility proved pivotal in executing the manager’s game plan.
Despite Núñez’s work rate and the Anfield crowd’s unwavering support—his name still echoes from the stands—there’s growing impatience. His performances have leaned more towards the frustrating than the thrilling, a concerning trend for Liverpool’s record signing.
With only three goals in 19 appearances this season, his output pales in comparison to his debut campaign, where he netted 15 goals. Even last season’s tally of 18 goals and 13 assists showcased a player integrating well with his teammates. This year, however, his numbers are starkly lower, with just two assists and a goal every 346 minutes.
Broader Squad Contributions
Liverpool’s impressive form, with 19 wins from 22 games, has largely masked Núñez’s inefficiency. Salah has spearheaded the attack with 16 goals, while Díaz, Gakpo, and Jota have contributed 9, 8, and 4 goals, respectively.
In Europe, the team’s defensive solidity has been a standout feature, with five consecutive clean sheets in the Champions League. Alisson’s commanding display against Girona, following a two-month injury layoff, was pivotal in securing victory.
However, Núñez’s struggles remain a lingering concern. With Jota back in training and nearing match fitness, the Portuguese forward’s return could further complicate Núñez’s prospects. Jota’s history of injury troubles aside, his sharper edge in front of goal makes him a natural first choice when fit.
Slot’s comments about Liverpool’s lack of pressing intensity against Girona hinted at broader attacking issues, ones exacerbated by Núñez’s inconsistency. Without a reliable focal point, the team has sometimes struggled to apply the high-intensity pressing that has become their hallmark.
What Lies Ahead for Núñez?
As Liverpool approach the midpoint of the season, tough decisions loom. Núñez, who turns 26 in June, has yet to fully justify the £85 million price tag that brought him to Anfield. While the club and its fans have remained patient, the question is whether time is running out for the Uruguayan.
Slot, keen to imprint his own vision on the squad, may see a new No. 9 as a priority in the upcoming transfer windows. For Núñez, the stakes couldn’t be higher. If he cannot recapture his form, he risks becoming a high-priced impact substitute rather than a cornerstone of Liverpool’s attack.
Liverpool’s march toward Champions League progression may overshadow Núñez’s woes for now, but the debate over his future is unlikely to fade. With Jota’s return imminent and potential January reinforcements on the horizon, Núñez faces a critical period to prove his worth to a club that demands excellence.
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