Jurgen Klopp has told Monday’s press conference – as per Athletic reporter James Pearce – that he has spoken to Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez behind the scenes over the attacker’s start to life at Anfield after his club-record move.
Nunez, 23, has scored two goals in seven appearances for the Reds so far. Pre-season comparisons with Manchester City’s Erling Haaland have completely evaporated. Haaland already has a whopping 17 goals in 11 appearances.
Nunez has been suspended for more games than he has scored goals, after being sent off for a headbutt on Joachim Andersen. Nunez has only started three of his seven games. Roberto Firmino started against Brighton, scoring twice.
Asked about Uruguay international Nunez and his tricky start to life at Liverpool, Klopp was quoted as saying that he has held talks with the striker behind the scenes. Klopp admits the forward is still adapting to life at Liverpool.
“Of course he’s still adapting. Only yesterday we had a long talk. It’s important that we’re completely calm. The team isn’t firing and that doesn’t make it easier for strikers. It’s really important in our situation that he isn’t worrying.”
Klopp has spoken to Liverpool striker Nunez over start to life at Anfield
Nunez has been poor. The striker showed immaturity and inexperience against Crystal Palace – Andersen playing the South American to a tee. He is lacking in confidence, and it is up to Klopp and Liverpool to get that back.
When he is confident, he is one of the world’s best – no doubt. We all saw what he can do when at the top of his game, a powerhouse up top. The early comparisons with Haaland were understandable, but Haaland is a different animal.
If anyone can get the best out of Nunez, it is Klopp. But Liverpool themselves, as a team, need to be playing better if they are to get back to the level that can drag Nunez out of the rut he is in currently.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
