Robbie Fowler has cast doubts on Darwin Nunez’s future at Liverpool, claiming the striker lacks the qualities to succeed at the club.
Since arriving from Benfica in June 2022 for £64m, potentially rising to £85m, the 25-year-old has delivered inconsistent performances that leave many questioning his long-term fit.
In 121 games across all competitions, Nunez has netted 37 goals, including just 22 in 80 Premier League matches.
While his work rate has won him fans, Fowler, who scored 183 goals for Liverpool, believes that’s not enough to justify his place in the team.
“We’ve been saying the same things for years—he’s raw, he’s got potential. But that’s not good enough anymore,” Fowler told ITV. “Working hard is a given at this level. You’re signed to score goals, and he hasn’t done that consistently.”
The Liverpool legend pointed out flaws in Nunez’s decision-making as a striker. “He’s quick on the pitch, but his speed of thought isn’t there. A striker’s instinct has to be sharper than anyone else’s.
When he has to think, he struggles; when it’s instinctive, he’s better, but still not good enough. He needs to improve his finishing, whether it’s with his feet or his head.”
Liverpool manager Arne Slot, however, sees a different side to Nunez. Slot recently highlighted the forward’s impact beyond goals, emphasizing his work ethic and team contributions.
“For me, he has an impact on the game,” Slot said. “Yes, he hasn’t scored as many goals as he or we would like, but his work rate and influence on our attacking play are significant.
He’s part of a team that’s scoring and winning regularly. Of course, as a number nine, he wants to score more, but I also evaluate him on his overall contribution.”
Slot acknowledged the pressure Nunez faces from supporters, suggesting it might sometimes work against him. “The fans love him so much that maybe he’s trying too hard to meet expectations.”
With contrasting opinions from Fowler and Slot, Nunez’s place at Liverpool remains a divisive topic as the striker looks to meet the high standards demanded by the club and its fans.