This Liverpool Star Might’ve Just Handed Darwin Nunez a Major Blow – Opinion | OneFootball

Does Federico Chiesa Deserve More Minutes Than Darwin Núñez? Dave Davis Weighs In

Liverpool’s attacking line-up has been a talking point for months, with fans and pundits debating who deserves a place in Arne Slot’s plans. Dave Davis, speaking on Anfield Index’s post-press conference podcast, put forward a compelling case regarding Federico Chiesa and Darwin Núñez, questioning where each player stands in the pecking order.

Chiesa’s Impact and the Call for More Minutes

Davis was quick to highlight Chiesa’s efficiency, stating: “He didn’t have much game time since he arrived, but we can see every time he’s on the pitch he looks dangerous.” His ability to influence games, even in limited minutes, has been evident.

Referencing Chiesa’s performance in the Accrington Stanley game, Davis noted: “He tried and tried again, hit the post, and obviously scored at the end. It looked like a popular goal as well, everybody was around him when he scored it.” That moment, Davis suggested, was telling: the squad recognises Chiesa’s threat and ability.

Chiesa has consistently shown he has the technical ability, finishing prowess, and positional awareness to justify more minutes. Davis argued that while he may not yet be a guaranteed starter, he presents a different type of attacking option: “Even in that Carabao Cup quarter against Southampton, he had one or two cleared off the line as well. He looks a threat.”

With Liverpool facing a gruelling fixture list, Davis suggested that Chiesa could become more than just an impact substitute: “If you keep them fit – and it’s a big if – I do believe they can have an impact,” he said, referring to both Chiesa and Diogo Jota. The key takeaway? Chiesa has been efficient with his chances, and more minutes could unlock further potential.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s Darwin Núñez Conundrum

If Chiesa is making a case for more minutes, what does that mean for Darwin Núñez? Davis didn’t hold back: “The tale just doesn’t get any better for Darwin Núñez, does it? It really doesn’t. It’s a horrible miss. It’s a nice assist, but it’s a horrible miss.”

There is a growing concern that Núñez is not developing into the consistent goalscorer Liverpool needs. Davis acknowledged Robbie Fowler’s recent comments about the Uruguayan, stating: “Robbie Fowler was quite honest about him, saying he doesn’t look like a Liverpool player. People jumped on him for that, but he’s just being honest about the sample size we’ve seen.”

Davis went on to pose a thought-provoking question: “Is Darwin now the sixth-choice forward? Has Chiesa moved up the rankings?” He admitted that might seem harsh, but he argued that, based on form, it’s a valid debate.

Even with speculation about a potential summer exit, Davis believes Núñez still has time to turn things around. However, with Liverpool in a tight title race, there’s little room for inconsistency. “If Darwin does stay until the end of the season, he can still play a part,” Davis acknowledged. But he also noted that speculation about a move to Saudi Arabia could continue if Núñez doesn’t deliver.

Photo: IMAGO

What Does Arne Slot Think?

While Davis was leading the discussion, he also pointed to Arne Slot’s approach to selection. Slot has shown patience with players returning from injury or struggling for form, easing them into action rather than throwing them in immediately. Regarding Jota, Davis observed: “It seems quite clear that Slot wants to get his players fully up to speed before introducing them into the 90.”

Applying that logic to Chiesa and Núñez, it suggests that minutes will be earned, not given. Slot has shown faith in players who deliver in training and matches. If Chiesa continues his form, he could edge ahead of Núñez in Slot’s hierarchy.

The Verdict: Who Deserves More Minutes?

If Liverpool had to make a decision based purely on form and efficiency, Davis’ analysis suggests Chiesa is making a stronger case. His direct impact on games, combined with Núñez’s struggles, has shifted the conversation.

However, football isn’t just about the short-term. Núñez still offers unique attributes—his physicality, pressing ability, and chaotic unpredictability. But if he continues to struggle in front of goal, the calls for Chiesa to start will only grow louder.

As Davis summed up: “There are positives there for two, but one is struggling massively. Chiesa is making a case for himself, Núñez needs to respond.”

Liverpool’s attack is stacked with options, and if Chiesa keeps delivering, Arne Slot may soon have a tough decision to make.