Nuñez’s Fitness Dilemma: A Worry for Liverpool?
The world of football was abuzz when Darwin Nuñez, Liverpool’s dynamic striker, was taken off the pitch during Uruguay’s recent World Cup 2026 qualifying clash in Quito. An abrupt half-time replacement has prompted concerns about his well-being and its potential repercussions on his club side.
Nuñez’s Muscular Woes
Marcelo Bielsa, managing the Uruguayan squad, shed light on this unexpected decision post-match. Nuñez, he commented, had faced “muscular difficulties” which restrained his typically aggressive play.
“Darwin entered the match already facing some muscular challenges, which impeded his performance,” shared Bielsa with the media. “Given his rigorous attempt to maintain pressure in the previous match, it seemed prudent to replace him.”
A Stellar Performance Cut Short
It’s worth noting the striker’s commendable contribution in the 3-1 victory against Chile, assisting two of the three goals. But this high-octane performance might have been the reason behind his curtailed participation in Ecuador.
Liverpool fans and analysts alike are speculating. Were Bielsa’s “muscular difficulties” a coded message about a legitimate injury or just cautionary words indicating fatigue?
Nuñez’s Liverpool Journey So Far
At 24, Nuñez has already left his mark in the Premier League, playing all four of Liverpool’s fixtures this season. But interestingly, he’s only made it to the starting eleven in their 3-0 triumph against Aston Villa and hasn’t clocked a full 90 minutes in any game for the 2023/24 season.
Related Reading: How Nuñez and Salah’s Partnership Spells Danger for Opponents This Season
The Anfield Conundrum
With Liverpool set to face Wolves at 12:30 BST this Saturday, Nuñez’s availability hangs in the balance. Given the close proximity of the matches and the long journey back from South America, there’s minimal rest time for players like him.
Other Reds like Alisson Becker (Brazil), Alexis Mac Allister (Argentina), and Luis Diaz (Colombia) also bore the international duty badge this break. Yet, with Becker missing Brazil’s second game, his Saturday appearance might be less contentious.
