Darwin Nunez has been urged by Liverpool manager Arne Slot to put in considerable effort to regain his spot in the starting lineup. Since Slot replaced Jurgen Klopp, Nunez has yet to start a match this season, totaling just 84 minutes of play across four games without any goals. This limited playing time has led to questions about his reliability, given his record of 33 goals in 100 appearances following his £85 million transfer from Benfica in 2022.
In a recent press conference, Slot emphasized that hard work is crucial for Nunez to earn a place in the team, comparing him to teammate Cody Gakpo. Gakpo made a strong impact in his first start of the season during Liverpool’s 3-1 Champions League win over AC Milan, showcasing how dedication can yield results. Slot stated, “The same as always the others. Work really hard and then the goals will come.” He pointed out that players like Gakpo, along with established names like Luis Diaz, Mohamed Salah, and Diogo Jota, find scoring opportunities through teamwork and commitment.
Slot mentioned that success for forwards often hinges on their off-the-ball work, expressing confidence that Nunez will soon find his scoring form. He reassured that Nunez is growing more accustomed to the team’s requirements as he continues to train. However, he acknowledged the tough competition for spots, especially with Diogo Jota’s strong performances.
When asked about Nunez’s confidence, Slot refuted the notion that he might be struggling, highlighting that Nunez returned from the Copa America with renewed assurance and has a history of being a consistent goal-scorer. He noted, “Darwin always has confidence and he has every right to have this confidence.”
Additionally, Slot provided squad updates, indicating that goalkeeper Alisson is uncertain for the upcoming match against Bournemouth due to a hamstring issue. A decision on Alisson’s availability will be made closer to match day, illustrating the challenges of managing player fitness during a busy schedule.
Overall, the message is clear: Nunez has a chance to reclaim his place in the lineup, but it will demand hard work and dedication to meet the team’s standards.
