Klopp ignored Liverpool’s recruitment team to sign Darwin Nunez over Chelsea star
This article contains affiliate links, and we will receive a commission on any sales generated from it. Nunez has sparked mixed opinions during his time at Anfield, notably missing several opportunities in his team’s recent 2-0 defeat against Everton. In a frustrating evening, Nunez had a chance to equalize in the first half but fired straight at the knee of Jordan Pickford instead of aiming across the goal.
His missed chance in a 1-0 loss against Crystal Palace earlier this month has also drawn attention. Notably, Nunez has scored 11 Premier League goals from an Expected Goals total of 18.8, indicating an underperformance of over seven strikes. This has led to criticism as Liverpool has struggled in the final third during their title challenge.
Liverpool ultimately accepted Nunez’s wish and completed a big-money transfer in the summer of 2022. However, there were claims that the recruitment team at Anfield considered RB Leipzig’s Nkunku as a potentially better option. The versatile Frenchman had an impressive record, having scored 35 goals and provided 20 assists in the previous season, prompting Chelsea to secure his transfer early in that season, which was formally confirmed the following summer.
Chelsea has faced challenges with Nkunku, as an injury suffered in pre-season delayed his debut until the winter, and subsequent setbacks have limited his Premier League appearances to seven. In light of missed opportunities, Klopp attributed Liverpool’s defeat against Everton to a lack of clarity and rush in the second half, coupled with defensive lapses. He highlighted the team’s failure to defend well and the surfeit of free-kicks conceded during the match.
