Revealed: Arne Slot Explains the Reasons Behind Darwin Nunez’s Recent Liverpool Performances | OneFootball

Insights into Arne Slot’s Strategy with Darwin Nunez at Liverpool

As Liverpool gears up for their next fixture against Brighton at Anfield, manager Arne Slot sheds light on his tactical approaches and player management, with a particular focus on Uruguayan striker Darwin Nunez.

Understanding Brighton: A Manager’s Perspective

Arne Slot, known for his meticulous preparation, has leveraged his extensive knowledge of Brighton, a team he frequently watched while managing Feyenoord. His admiration for the tactical nuances displayed by former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi is evident. Slot explained, “I like to watch football in general and then I always prefer to watch some teams or some managers. That is also what I had with Brighton when Roberto De Zerbi was there. It’s not like I was watching their games back, just on a Saturday afternoon if I could watch every game then I would (often) choose Brighton.”

Darwin Nunez’s Role in Liverpool’s Formation

Since arriving at Liverpool, Darwin Nunez has been a focal point of Slot’s tactical setup. Despite scoring just once in the Premier League this season, Nunez has showcased significant prowess in recent matches against Chelsea and Arsenal. Slot notes, “There is definitely a reason for that and that is the fixture list – Chelsea at home and Arsenal away. If you have to play those two – and I don’t know if you are including Leipzig as well – then you probably have the answer.”

Photo: IMAGO

Slot emphasizes the strategic shifts that have influenced Nunez’s performance: “With his work-rate definitely, he has done well. He also came back quite late (to pre-season) and had to adapt a bit because we press a bit differently. The idea is still the same, to press high, but we’re using the press a bit more with the wingers inside and the number nine has to defend a little more and he is now more involved in that pressing part.”

Evolution of Premier League Managers

The changing landscape of Premier League management, featuring younger coaches like Brighton’s Fabian Hurzeler, reflects a broader trend. Slot, however, provides a seasoned perspective, comparing the experience levels of successful managers like Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp. “The one that has won the Premier League for the last few times – do you want to see Pep (Guardiola, who is now 53) as a bit older or is he also still young? He’s very experienced and the one that won (the Premier League) in between was Jurgen (Klopp, now 57) of course. He is a bit older,” Slot remarks.

Liverpool’s Tactical Flexibility

In their recent League Cup victory against Brighton, Liverpool showcased their tactical versatility by playing without a traditional number nine. This approach is set to evolve in their upcoming matches, with Nunez expected to lead the line. Slot’s strategy involves a dynamic use of player positions and responsibilities, particularly in pressing situations, which he believes Nunez has adapted to well.

Slot concludes with a positive note on Nunez’s adaptation and potential: “I still see a lot of room for improvement. But the first thing, and the most important thing, is that his attitude is right and he wants to work. Now maybe he doesn’t have to run that much if he does it even better but that is normal if you have only played a few games that it is not perfect yet. But the attitude he has is very positive like the others.”

As Liverpool continue their campaign under Arne Slot’s leadership, the blend of tactical knowledge and player development remains central to their approach. With Slot at the helm and Nunez gaining form, Liverpool’s season looks promising.