Liverpool Boss Arne Slot Calls for More Effort from Darwin Nunez
Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, has voiced concerns about Darwin Nunez’s work rate in recent matches, questioning the striker’s overall intensity on the pitch.
The Uruguayan forward came off the bench in Liverpool’s win against Wolverhampton Wanderers on February 16 and again in their clash with Aston Villa on February 19. However, he struggled to make an impact, notably missing a clear goal-scoring chance in the Villa match.
When Liverpool secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Manchester City, a result that strengthened their lead at the top of the Premier League table, Nunez remained on the bench throughout the game.
While Slot initially defended his player after the missed opportunity against Villa, he later admitted that Nunez’s frustration seemed to affect his overall effort. “I reassured him that missing chances happens—it’s part of the game,” Slot said in his press conference ahead of Liverpool’s next fixture against Newcastle.
However, the manager didn’t shy away from addressing the issue. “Effort is non-negotiable. Everyone has bad days, but when a player’s intensity drops two games in a row, it becomes a problem,” he stated.
Slot emphasized the importance of maintaining high energy levels, especially given Nunez’s reputation for relentless pressing and hard work. “He didn’t completely stop working, but he wasn’t the same Darwin that fans are used to—the one who gives everything for the team.”
Despite his concerns, the Liverpool boss noted a shift in Nunez’s attitude, pointing out that the striker delivered a strong performance during Monday’s training session.
The Numbers Behind Nunez’s Work Rate
According to data from Opta, Nunez remains one of Liverpool’s hardest-working players. His average of 25.86 sprints per game ranks second in the squad, just behind Connor Bradley’s 28.19. He also covers significant ground, averaging 11.28 kilometers per match, putting him among the team’s top runners.
In the games against Wolves and Villa, where he played under 30 minutes in each, Nunez still put in a shift. He covered 3.66 kilometers with eight sprints against Wolves and 3.06 kilometers with six sprints against Villa.
While his statistics suggest he’s still putting in the effort, Slot’s comments indicate that Liverpool expects more—not just in numbers, but in the intensity and attitude that make Nunez such a dynamic presence on the pitch.
