Darwin Núñez sends a heartfelt message to Jürgen Klopp following the former Liverpool boss’ departure

Liverpool forward Darwin Núñez has sent a heartfelt message to former manager Jürgen Klopp following the German’s Anfield exit. last weekend — putting an end to over-analyzed suggestions that he was not cheering for the former Reds boss during the guard of honor because of some sort of feud.

Núñez deleted any images involving Liverpool from his Instagram page a few weeks ago and it was then caught on camera not applauding Klopp after the final game of the season, although videos from inside the Reds dressing room later painted a different story of the pair’s relationship. Liverpool boss Arne Slot intends to have Núñez in his squad for 2024/25.

“We were all a bit shocked by Klopp’s departure, nobody expected it. It’s a shame he’s leaving,” Núñez said. Polideportivo earlier today. “Personally I would have liked him (to have gone) in a big way, winning things, and it didn’t happen that way. It’s a shame for the players too. I wish him all the best.”

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No Liverpool player made more appearances for the Reds than Núñez last season in all competitions, and while the Uruguayan missed plenty of big chances, he also scored 18 times and provided a further 13 assists. It wouldn’t take a huge change in how clinical he is in front of goal to unlock another level of his game.

With a new head coach which means a fresh start for a number of players and a clean slate in terms of the pecking order, a good summer will be vital for Núñez to ensure he starts the next campaign as first choice number nine. Liverpool already have Cody Gakpo and Diogo Jota as excellent alternatives and could delve into the transfer market to add even more depth.

Liverpool.com says: Núñez has to start again under Arne Slot, but the talent is there to be unlocked. Just being a little more clinical is all he would need to reach a whole new level and go from a good striker to a world class one. After all, the margins are tight at the top of the Premier League and Liverpool need him (and others) to improve from a good base.