Liverpool manager Arne Slot has made it clear to Darwin Nunez that he sees the Uruguayan striker as a key player for the team next season.
Slot recently spoke with Nunez during the Copa America to discuss his future at Liverpool, addressing concerns about Nunez’s long-term role at Anfield.
Nunez experienced a challenging end to the previous season, going 10 games without scoring and expressing frustration, which led to a fallout with some Liverpool fans.
This frustration was evident when he deleted all his Instagram posts featuring him in a Liverpool kit, sparking rumors about a potential move to Barcelona.
However, Barcelona’s financial constraints make a transfer unlikely.
Slot took the opportunity at the Copa America, where Nunez has been in good form with two goals in his last three games, to assure him of his importance to Liverpool.
The Liverpool boss emphasized the different attacking roles Nunez played under former manager Jurgen Klopp and clarified the position he envisions for him in the upcoming season.
“I explained to him the various positions he has played and the specific role I envision for him,” Slot remarked.
“I believe he’ll adapt excellently to this playing style because I have a high regard for his abilities. I’ve already told him that.
He might have had some struggles with finishing opportunities, but he came into those positions often.
I think he could fit in really well. It’s normal at a club like this that there are many players who could play in his position.”
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Slot made it clear to Nunez what his role will be, aiming to give the player confidence and clarity.
Slot believes Nunez will fit perfectly into his attacking vision for the Reds. He shared his first experience watching Liverpool live in February 2017 when they defeated Tottenham 2-0 at Anfield.
At the time, Slot was the coach of Dutch side Cambuur Leeuwarden and was invited by former Liverpool assistant coach Pep Lijnders to scout Pedro Chirivella with former sporting director Michael Edwards.
Reflecting on that visit, Slot was impressed by the bond between the Liverpool team and their fans, even before the club’s success under Klopp, which included winning the Premier League and the Champions League.
“I got a feel for the club,” Slot said.
“This was prior to their Premier League and Champions League victories under Jurgen Klopp,” Slot recalled. “The atmosphere was optimistic even then, despite the absence of major trophies at the time,” he added.
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Slot is committed to continuing Klopp’s successful legacy and strives to lead Liverpool to further triumphs. “Our goal is to win and be at the top of the league,” he declared.
“We aim to maintain that position throughout all 38 games. Achieving this requires consistent daily effort and continuous improvement. That’s what we have to do”, he emphasized.
With Slot’s clear vision and support, Nunez can look forward to playing a pivotal role in Liverpool’s pursuit of glory in the upcoming season.
