Nunez's Struggles at Liverpool: Insights from Gus Poyet

The contrast between Darwin Nuñez playing for the national team versus Liverpool is significant. When representing his country, he is confident in his role as the number nine. He doesn't have to worry about his position changing from game to game, unlike at Liverpool where there is more uncertainty. Whether it's Monday or Thursday, he knows he will be taking the field for the next match with the national team.

“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,” Uruguayan great Poyet explains in an exclusive conversation with Tribalfootball and continues by putting a finger down where it might hurt a bit.

“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.

But does Poyet see a potential there for Darwin to become the number one goal-scorer, when Mohamed Salah eventually leaves Anfield?

“He did very well for Uruguay in games that were very open. When you play for Liverpool, the opponent is not going to be open in 70-80% of the games. They're going to be tight and there won’t be much space. It's depending on the way the team plays as well. 

"That doesn’t mean he's good or bad. Many times, I have said no to a Sporting Director when he shows me a player.

“'But he’s good', he says. Yes, but it's not what we need. Maybe that's the characteristics of Darwin Nuñez right now at Liverpool...?”

Gus Poyet was speaking Tribalfootball on behalf of William Hill