Darwin Nunez’s poor performance in front of goal has drawn a lot of criticism this season, and Liverpool’s struggles with finishing have cost them recently.
The 24-year-old has scored 11 goals in the Premier League so far this season, but he has also wasted a lot of big opportunities as Jurgen Klopp’s team lost the FA Cup, the Europa League, and the Premier League.
Nunez, who arrived at Anfield in the summer of 2022 for £85 million from Benfica, has become something of a cult icon, but his goal-scoring ability is coming under scrutiny.
After scoring the game-winning goal against Nottingham Forest in the last seconds of the match earlier in March, the 22-cap Uruguayan international has only netted once in his previous five starts.
Furthermore, according to former Reds left defender Jose Enrique, Nunez does not meet the necessary threshold based on the data.
The Spaniard claims Liverpool has to replace the South American striker because of their poor finishing, which is the primary reason they are now trailing Manchester City and Arsenal in the title fight.
“They are just passing up too many opportunities,” he said to Grosvenor Sports.
“When you miss as many opportunities as they do, especially when your defense is weak and you give up a lot of chances on your own end, it is impossible to win the Premier League.”
Darwin Nunez just isn’t, and never has been, at the necessary level.Although he is a talented player, he is not a Liverpool No. 9.
IMPORTANT CHOICE OVER SALAH
As Mohamed Salah approaches the final year of his contract, new sports director Richard Hughes may need to decide how to go with the Egyptian.
Al-Ittihad and other Saudi Pro League teams are rumored to be eager to sign the 31-year-old, although Liverpool turned down a massive offer of more than £100 million last summer.
Enrique acknowledges that the club may have to decide between accepting a new contract offer and believes that this summer is their best chance to profit from Salah.
“Mohamed Salah is a big question mark because this summer is probably the club’s last chance to really cash in on him,” he stated.
“Good luck to whoever gets to replace Mohamed Salah at Liverpool, is all I have to say!”