Darwin Nunez has addressed criticism from Liverpool fans with a defiant message, thanking supporters for standing by him despite his recent struggles.
The 25-year-old forward has endured a challenging season under new manager Arne Slot, scoring only two Premier League goals in 11 appearances and three in 19 across all competitions.
Liverpool’s stellar team performances have highlighted Nunez’s difficulties, with the Uruguayan’s issues laid bare during their 1-0 Champions League win over Girona.
Nunez missed several chances and was substituted after 70 minutes, leading to renewed frustration among some fans.
Responding to the criticism, Nunez took to Instagram to express his gratitude while addressing the mixed reactions: “They are not all, they are some. Thank you Reds for your support, we are all still together!”
On X, he shared a similarly resolute message: “Together we stand, ready for what’s next!”
Liverpool manager Arne Slot defended Nunez after the Girona match, acknowledging the forward’s struggles but emphasizing his potential: “Every striker has periods where they miss chances. Darwin was a threat, and I kept him on because goals are crucial for a striker. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen tonight, but he’s working hard.”
Slot also noted the team’s depth, with Mohamed Salah scoring the decisive goal against Girona: “We have many players who can score, but I know Darwin needs goals for his confidence. He’ll get there.”
Former Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given, however, was less forgiving in his assessment.
Speaking on Premier Sports, Given criticized Nunez as “a bit of a workhorse” lacking natural footballing instincts: “When you spend £85 million, you expect more than just hard work. Everything he does looks like a struggle. He’s not a natural finisher.”
While opinions remain divided, Nunez’s messages reflect his determination to overcome these challenges and prove his worth.
As Liverpool enjoy a remarkable season atop both the Premier League and Champions League tables, Nunez remains focused on contributing to the team’s success.