Darwin Nunez Responds to Aston Villa Criticism with Defiant Message
Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez has addressed the criticism following his underwhelming display against Aston Villa, taking to social media to deliver a defiant response.
Scrutiny Over Missed Chance Intensifies
The fallout from Liverpool’s draw at Villa Park has centred around Nunez’s glaring miss in the 78th minute—an opportunity that could have sealed three points. A precise cutback from Dominik Szoboszlai set up the Uruguayan for what seemed an inevitable goal, only for him to miss the target.
It was a moment that encapsulated the frustration surrounding Nunez’s form. Since his £64 million move from Benfica in 2022—rising to £85 million with add-ons—the striker has managed 24 goals in 86 Premier League appearances.
His current season statistics (four goals and two assists) have only intensified scrutiny, particularly with Liverpool’s financial commitment reaching £76.5 million following an appearance-triggered add-on.
Nunez Issues Bold Response
Amidst the growing criticism, Nunez has taken to X to defend his mentality and commitment, writing:
Ni fui el mejor hace tres semanas ni soy el peor ahora. Si me caigo, me levanto. Nunca me van a ver bajar los brazos.
Voy a dejar todo hasta el último día que me toque estar acá en Liverpool.
Resiliencia! pic.twitter.com/cruy7OZO1o
— Darwin Núñez (@Darwinn99) February 20, 2025
“I wasn’t the best three weeks ago nor am I the worst now. If I fall, I get up. You will never see me lower my arms.”
“I’m going to give everything until the last day I have to be here in Liverpool. Resilience!”
His reaction highlights his determination to prove doubters wrong, despite the mounting pressure on his performances.
Arne Slot’s Reaction to Nunez’s Attitude
Interestingly, Liverpool manager Arne Slot focused less on the miss itself and more on Nunez’s body language in its aftermath. Speaking ahead of the Reds’ upcoming clash with Manchester City, Slot emphasised the importance of the striker’s response rather than the mistake:
“I can accept every miss, especially from a player who scored two very important goals against Brentford, that scored for us in the home game against Aston Villa.”
“I would prefer him to score, but the word chance says it all; it’s a chance and not 100% the ball goes in.”
However, the Dutchman was less forgiving about what followed:
“What is harder for me to accept is the behaviour after that chance. It was not the usual Darwin who works his ass off. He was too disappointed at missing.”
As Liverpool chase silverware this season, Nunez’s ability to handle adversity and maintain his confidence will be crucial. His response, both online and on the pitch, will be closely watched in the weeks ahead.
