“I think his personality needs that trust” - Gus Poyet highlights why 25-year-old star has struggled to impress at Liverpool 

Former Premier League star Gus Poyet has shared his thoughts on the struggles of Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez to reach his best level in England. The 25-year-old Uruguay international has yet to make a single start for his club this season, despite an impressive Copa America campaign in the summer.

Former Benfica star Nunez has proven to be a hugely polarising figure since his arrival at Anfield in 2022, as he has struggled to perform consistently. Former Reds boss Jürgen Klopp had the forward as a regular option despite his struggles, but he has not been afforded the same opportunity this term.

Liverpool have begun life under Arne Slot in excellent fashion, with three wins and a defeat from their opening four games of the 2024-25 league season. Darwin Nunez has played only 62 minutes across all four games, leading to questions on his suitability for Slot's style. Former Chelsea star Poyet spoke with Tribalfootball about his compatriot, revealing the reason behind his struggles. He said:

“There's a big difference to the Darwin Nuñez of the national team and the Darwin Nuñez of Liverpool. In the national team he knows he's the number nine. Done deal. It doesn't matter if it's Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. He knows he plays the next game.

“Without knowing him personally, I think that situation is helping him to perform because he's been outstanding in Uruguay. Outstanding. And then he doesn't play here, which is a real change of emotions. I think his personality needs that trust; you know."

“Now, you also have to earn it, and one coach maybe likes another player. But when it's two coaches, then you become a little bit of a problem, you know? Does he need to leave? I don't know, it's very personal, but some people will prefer to go somewhere else to play, some are willing to accept the position."

Nunez joined Liverpool for around £64 million but has failed so far to justify his price tag at the club. He arrived in the Premier League in the same summer as Erling Haaland, but has managed only a third of Haaland's tally in the league. The Uruguayan has 33 goals, 18 of which came in the 2023-24 season, in 100 games for the Reds.

Liverpool boss offers insight into Darwin Nunez situation at Anfield

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has spoken about the lack of action from Darwin Nunez this season, revealing that the striker is in his plans. Nunez has only played 84 minutes across all competitions this season, and Slot was questioned on this in his pre-Bournemouth press conference.

“For sure Darwin Nunez will get his chance in the near future. We play a lot of games. He's fitter and fitter now.”

“But he's in competition with Diogo Jota who in our and my opinion, has done really well in the last games”.

Diogo Jota has failed to score or provide an assist in the last three games for the side, leading fans to ask for Nunez to get a chance. The Uruguayan scored two goals at the Copa America this summer, and may be able to prove his worth to Slot's side.