Time for Captain Chaos to shine

Liverpool’s Darwin Nunez has been on fire playing for Uruguay recently. AFP Photo.

Paul Kennedy

Liverpool fans call him ‘Captain Chaos’. Mainly because they’ve no idea what he’s going to do it when he’s on the pitch.

The problem is, most of the time, I don’t think Darwin Nunez really has any idea what he’s going to do either.

Since the Uruguayan signed for Liverpool in 2022, in a deal worth around US$107 million, I think it’s fair to says he’s been a little hit and miss. Probably leaning more towards miss if I’m honest.

In 65 Premier League games for the Reds, he’s found the net 20 times. One goal every three and a bit games isn’t exactly prolific.

Despite his relatively low return, he is very much adored by Liverpool supporters, myself included, and we are all hoping he can turn a corner next season.

Earlier this week, Nunez played for his national team against USA in the Copa America. He was subbed after 89 minutes in a match Uruguay won one nil.

If Nunez had managed to score he would have been the first player to do so in eight consecutive games for Uruguay, smashing a record that has stood for 96 years.

Nunez equalled the record – which stands at seven successive matches – last Thursday when Uruguay thrashed Bolivia 5-0.

Sadly he never managed to achieve that feat but his recent goal-scoring prowess for country can only be good news for his club.

It’s worth noting he’s still only 25 and as Liverpool have a new coach this season, maybe new ideas and new positions will bring a new lease of life for Darwin.

Liverpool, especially in recent years, rarely make mistakes in the transfer window, even more so when spending huge sums of money for players like Nunez.

Former manager Jurgen Klopp knew his stuff, and I’m sure the backroom analysis the team poured over his stats with a fine toothcomb before splashing the cash.

Another problem for Darwin was when he joined Liverpool, Manchester City signed Erling Haaland at the same time and comparisons were made.

Both players made their debut in the Community Shield final when Liverpool beat City by three goals to one.

Nunez scored that day, Liverpool’s third, but Haaland had a bit of a stinker. We all know what happened next. Haaland kicked on in a major way, Nunez not so much.

But it’s out with the old and in with the new. New season, new coach and Liverpool fans will be hoping, a new Captain Chaos will be wearing the number 9. VNS