Slot Defends Núñez in Liverpool’s Win Over Bologna

Liverpool manager Arne Slot came to Darwin Núñez's defense after a tough night for the striker in the Reds’ 2-0 victory against Bologna

October 3, 2024
12:53 pm

Liverpool manager Arne Slot jumped to Darwin Núñez’s defense after the striker had a bit of a rough night in the Reds’ 2-0 victory over Bologna in the UEFA Champions League at Anfield. Even though Núñez played a crucial part in setting up Alexis Mac Allister’s opening goal, his overall performance was a bit quiet, leading to his substitution just after the hour mark. The Uruguayan had missed Liverpool’s last match against Wolves due to illness but was given a third consecutive start, thanks to Diogo Jota’s injury keeping him out.

Slot was quick to shift the spotlight from Núñez’s individual struggles to the team’s overall performance, pointing out that Liverpool didn’t create enough chances for the forward. “In the first hour, we didn’t create a lot of chances for him because we missed the final pass on numerous occasions,” Slot said after the game. “He had a tough night because Bologna’s defense was solid, and we didn’t give him the service he needed.”

The Liverpool manager brushed off worries about Núñez’s goal-scoring record, saying it was too early to judge based on just a few starts. “He was involved in the build-up for the first goal, and if we’d given him better service, he might have scored. It’s not fair to say, ‘he’s only scored one goal,’ after three starts,” Slot added, confidently believing that the striker will find his groove as the season rolls on.

While Núñez’s performance might not have been his best, Slot couldn’t stop praising Mohamed Salah for his standout display. Salah not only assisted Mac Allister’s opener but also scored a stunning goal with his signature curling strike, cutting inside from the right. Slot applauded the Egyptian’s efforts but dodged questions about his long-term future as his contract winds down. “Mo showed tonight why he’s one of the best in the world,” Slot said. “If you put him in the right positions, he will always score or create goals.”

The Liverpool manager also wanted to shine a light on the team effort behind Salah’s goal, pointing out that it wasn’t just about the finish. “Virgil’s ball through, Diogo’s turn, Dom’s involvement, and Trent’s overlapping run all created the space for Mo to do what he does best,” Slot said, highlighting that Salah’s magic was made possible by his teammates.

When asked about balancing key players like Salah and Núñez, Slot said, “These players will always score goals if you keep playing them, but I can’t play them all. It’s a good problem to have, and we’ve shown that even without all of them on the pitch, we can still get the results.”

Another star of the show was Ryan Gravenberch, who shone once again in midfield. Slot praised the Dutchman’s dribbling skills and defensive work, saying, “Ryan was outstanding today. His dribbling helped break down their defense, but people often overlook the hard work he does without the ball—winning second balls and contributing defensively.”

Liverpool’s comfortable win over Bologna, along with impressive performances from key players, puts them in a strong position in the UEFA Champions League group stage. Slot will be chuffed with the depth and quality of his squad, even as he rotates players to handle the busy season ahead.

With two group stage wins under their belt and key players getting back to fitness, the Reds look ready to take on multiple challenges this season. However, Slot’s management of both his star players and rising talents will be key as the competition heats up.