Doubts about Liverpool fans’ feelings toward Darwin Nunez were clearly dispelled by the Anfield crowd’s reaction on Saturday. With half an hour gone, supporters across the stadium stood to applaud the Uruguayan striker, not for a goal, but for a crucial block where he charged down an opponent, sending the ball out for a throw-in.
Nunez’s time at Liverpool has been tumultuous, and despite scoring 18 goals last season, there’s a growing belief that this season may be his last chance to prove himself in a Liverpool shirt.
It was significant that manager Arne Slot chose to give Nunez his first start of the season against Bournemouth, emphasizing the importance of seizing this opportunity.
Initially, Nunez was relatively quiet, although he did force a save from Kepa Arrizabalaga after a clever turn in the box. However, as the match progressed, so did his involvement.
After a near miss when Antoine Semenyo, who was offside, had a goal disallowed, Slot’s side displayed the intensity that had been lacking in their previous match against Nottingham Forest. They took the lead when Luis Diaz skillfully finished into an empty net after beating Kepa to a long ball.
Not long after, Diaz made it 2-0, and Nunez capitalized on the momentum, curling a beautiful shot past the Bournemouth keeper following a clever flick from Mohamed Salah. His celebration reflected immense relief as the Kop chanted his name.
Although he didn’t score again in the second half, Nunez played as if liberated from the uncertainty that had surrounded his season.
If Slot hopes to conclude his first season at Anfield with silverware, he will certainly wish for Nunez to continue this form.
