Darwin Núñez: Liverpool’s Missing Link Up Front | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Goal Scoring Struggles: Darwin Nunez Must Return

The Núñez Factor in Liverpool’s Frontline

The art of football lies not just in the goals scored but in the potential for them. This was distinctly lacking in Liverpool’s recent performances without Darwin Núñez at the helm. Statistics speak louder than words: with Núñez, Liverpool’s shot-making ability significantly improves. His SofaScore rating of 7.13, though 11th among strikers, becomes crucial when delving deeper into his contribution.

Shots Fired, Missed Opportunities

In the absence of Núñez, the likes of Salah, Diaz, and Gakpo struggled to make an impact, their firepower evidently dampened. The game where Liverpool needed three goals to turn the tide saw this trio failing to deliver, with their attempts on goal amounting to a mere handful (three in total). Against Atalanta, Salah’s penalty was a rare highlight in a game with few clear-cut chances. This was a stark contrast to the 24 matches where Núñez, despite a noted conversion issue, led the line and Liverpool scored thrice or more.

Photo: IMAGO

Creating Chances, Paving Ways

The data suggests a compelling narrative: Liverpool’s forwards are better with Núñez. His 3.45 shots per game, the second-highest among strikers, and 10 big chances created, placing him fourth, are indicators of his ability to keep the opposition’s defence on their toes. Despite Núñez missing 24 big chances, also second among strikers, his aggressive approach to game-play has a ripple effect, enhancing the team’s overall dynamics.

Liverpool’s Tactical Shift

As Liverpool prepares to face Fulham, the debate intensifies: should Núñez start at the expense of Diaz or Gakpo? The answer, fortified by hard statistics, leans heavily towards a ‘yes.’ With an impressive 11 goals to his name, ranking seventh among strikers, and the ability to deliver crucial assists (eight, ranking fourth), his inclusion could be the catalyst Liverpool needs to rejuvenate their attack.

Liverpool’s attacking prowess this season seems to hinge on Núñez’s involvement. While his teammates have faltered in his absence, the Uruguayan’s propensity to shoot and create embodies the spark that Liverpool must harness. With Fulham on the horizon, the choice seems clear: Núñez should lead the line, potentially at the cost of either Diaz or Gakpo. The numbers don’t lie, and for Liverpool, it’s high time to play the stats.