In a season filled with ups and downs, Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez has expressed a desire to set aside his struggles with the club as he turns his attention to international duties with Uruguay. Despite Liverpool sitting at the top of the Premier League, Nunez has faced challenges, scoring just five goals in 23 appearances in England's top tier. The 25-year-old forward joined Liverpool from Benfica in 2022 for £85 million, but his performance since has raised questions.
Nunez recalls a more fruitful tenure during his earlier seasons, having netted 15 goals in 42 appearances in his first year and 18 in 54 matches last season. He hopes to move past his current form while representing his nation. In an interview with Uruguayan media outlet El Pais, he stated, “I’m motivated to forget a little about what’s happening there [at Liverpool]. Besides, there’s nothing more beautiful for a player than wearing your country’s jersey.”
The striker has encountered difficulties cementing a regular starting position under manager Arne Slot, who has opted for different tactics this season. Nunez’s disappointment further deepened when he missed a pivotal penalty in the Champions League shoot-out against PSG.
Amid ongoing speculation about his future, with reports linking him to clubs in Saudi Arabia, Nunez remains determined to improve his performance. “I know I’m not performing as well as I should; it’s difficult because when you’re doing well, like when I came on against PSG, your confidence changes,” he added. “But then you get a slump, and I’m always there to help my teammates come back to the national team.” His mental resilience is backed by the support of his family.
The Liverpool squad overall has had a rocky but promising season. With Liverpool focusing on seizing the Premier League title, they lead the table by 12 points now. The disappointment of being eliminated from the Champions League and their recent loss in the League Cup final hangs over the squad, making consistency more imperative under the leadership of Slot.
Meanwhile, fellow teammate Harvey Elliott has demonstrated his utility to the young English squad. Despite suffering a knock in the Carabao Cup final due to a collision with Joelinton, Elliott participated in training with the England Under-21s during the international break. He made an impact as a substitute in the final against Newcastle, coming on in the 74th minute and assisting Federico Chiesa’s goal.
Elliott's recent record has been stellar; he scored the decisive goal in the Champions League round of 16 against PSG and presently averages a goal involvement every 97 minutes. However, he has faced his own challenges this season, including limited playtime and a prolonged absence due to a broken foot. Liverpool manager Slot has praised his commitment and impact when on the field.
The midfield dynamism of Liverpool has been crucial this season, with statistics indicating the importance of contributions from Elliott and others. Mohamed Salah leads the ranks with an average rating of 7.30, amassing 32 goals and 22 assists in 43 matches. Virgil van Dijk’s consistency has earned him an impressive average rating of 7.05 this season as well.
Despite the positive performances from key players like Salah and Van Dijk, Nunez and Diogo Jota's struggles have highlighted the need for reinforcements in the summer transfer window. The scouting reports indicate that clubs like Atletico Madrid are monitoring Nunez's situation, potentially eyeing a loan deal with a £30 million obligation to buy.
Illustrating the growing concern for squad depth, Liverpool are willing to let Nunez leave should the right offer come in, thus further demonstrating their commitment to refining the squad under Slot. However, the departure of Nunez could signal both a shift in tactical approach and the need for Liverpool to search for a reliable alternative in the transfer market.
The Reds have endured a season that they had begun with ambitions for glory on four fronts. However, their trajectory is now focused halfway through the campaign towards the primary goal of capturing the Premier League title, which appears within reach for the team.
As the season proceeds, all eyes will be on Liverpool's performances and how players like Nunez adapt. With talks of possible exits and new signings looming over the Merseyside club, supporters hope for a resurgence as they aim for both domestic success and a more impactful showing from all squad members during the remainder of the season.
