Nunez had reportedly been facing an uncertain future at Anfield due to his inconsistent performance under former manager Jurgen Klopp. However, new manager Arne Slot swiftly reassured the Uruguayan striker that he would be the club’s starting forward this season. According to The Mirror, Nunez is said to be ‘delighted’ after Slot called him to explain the 25-year-old’s role in the team.
Nunez became Liverpool’s record signing when he joined from Benfica in 2022 for an initial fee of £64 million ($79 million). Despite his high-profile arrival, he has struggled with consistency in England, making only 22 Premier League starts last season. Cody Gakpo ended the season as Liverpool’s starting striker under Klopp, and his three goals at Euro 2024 could provide competition for Nunez up front.
Nunez had the lowest ‘big chance’ conversion rate in the Premier League last season, scoring only 18 percent of his clear opportunities. Additionally, he was caught offside more than any other player in the league and only Erling Haaland has missed more big chances in Europe over the past two years.
The forward is currently on an extended break after representing Uruguay at the Copa America earlier this summer. Consequently, he might not feature in Liverpool’s opening Premier League match against Ipswich on August 17th. Nonetheless, he is expected to play a significant role in Slot’s debut season on Merseyside.