Liverpool have undergone wholesale changes this summer as they aim to retain the Premier League title this season.
Arne Slot began his defence of the English crown in winning fashion, despite Antoine Semenyo single-handedly overturning the two-goal deficit at Anfield.
The Bournemouth man threatened to spoil the party for the Reds until Federico Chiesa saved the day, scoring in the 88th minute before Mohamed Salah wrapped up the three points in stoppage time.
New man Hugo Ekitike continued his fantastic start to life for Liverpool, scoring on his league debut after opening the scoring on four minutes during the Community Shield loss against Crystal Palace.
Liverpool v Bournemouth - Premier League
Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
However, Slot is eager to bolster his attacking options before the 1 September deadline, and one player he allowed to leave Anfield is making great strides since his departure.
Darwin Nunez scores again for Al-Hilal after Liverpool move
Darwin Nunez left Liverpool this summer, joining Al-Hilal in a £56 million deal after three underwhelming seasons on Merseyside.
The 25-year-old cut a controversial figure during his spell with the Reds; his passion and chaotic energy endeared him to the Liverpool faithful despite his lack of presence in front of goal.
He has, however, hit the ground running immediately for Al-Hilal as his goal in the 6-0 win over FC Aarau on Sunday now means the Uruguayan has scored in all three outings for his new side.
Ekitike is expected to be a success at Anfield, but there is no doubting that Liverpool could benefit from another option in attack, considering Luis Diaz also followed Nunez out the door this summer.
Indeed, Ekitike is a calmer version of Nunez, and this is evident in his early performances, as he has displayed similar work ethic Nunez showed at Anfield, but with even more composure when presented with goal-scoring opportunities.
The Reds are pushing for another attacking signing, as TBR Football understands that Isak is confident he will sign for Liverpool before the deadline, despite Newcastle United insisting on their ‘not for sale’ stance.
Liverpool will not miss Darwin Nunez
Liverpool supporters will be worried about the squad depth in the attacking positions if Richard Hughes fails to recruit another forward before the deadline.
Despite Slot’s preference to have two options for each position, the Reds are undoubtedly stronger across the pitch after their summer exploits.
Furthermore, Nunez missed 57 big chances across his Liverpool career; his presence may be missed in the Anfield dressing room, but it had become clear that he did not meet the standard required to lead the line for the Premier League champions.
Nevertheless, he will still be held in high regard for the love he showed the club and its supporters during his time there, and the Liverpool faithful will undoubtedly be pleased to see Nunez enjoying success in Saudi Arabia.