Michael Owen issues a major WARNING on Darwin Nunez

Michael Owen has warned Liverpool about Darwin Nunez, claiming the striker may have already reached his peak at Anfield.

Despite finishing last season with 18 goals and 13 assists in all competitions, Nunez still faced criticism from fans and pundits alike.

The Uruguayan started the season brightly but lost his place in the starting line-up towards the end of the campaign, with the forward even hinting at a summer exit after deleting all Liverpool-related posts from his Instagram page in May.

Nunez was guilty of spurning some big chances at crucial moments towards the end of the season, and Cody Gakpo managed to move ahead of him in the pecking order following some encouraging displays.

While Liverpool seemingly have no intention of selling the former Benfica man, ex-striker Michael Owen believes he may have already reached his potential for the Reds.

MICHAEL OWEN SKEPTICAL OF “CRUDE” DARWIN NUNEZ.

Speaking to the Liverpool Echo about the Reds’ number nine, Owen suggested that Nunez may not improve significantly in the coming years.

“People are really hopeful that he could turn into a top player because obviously they see some attributes that are phenomenal and hard to teach,” said the 2001 Ballon d’Or winner.

“But I think if it continues the way it is now, I think people will probably accept that it’s going to be like this forever. When I first saw him, I thought, damn, he’s cruel. Obviously, I expected that .

Soccer – Football League Cup – Quarter Final – Liverpool FC v West Ham United FC LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – Wednesday 20 December 2023: Liverpool’s Darwin Nunez during the Football League Cup Quarter Final match between Liverpool FC and West Ham Ham United FC at Anfield. Photo by David Rawcliffe/Liverpool Propaganda Anfield MERSEYSIDE ENGLAND PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxUK Copyright: xDavidxRawcliffex P2023-12-20-Liverpool_West_Ham-59

“I knew his age, but I expected that of a younger player. That he will learn more about the game and the role and things like that.

“But with his age, you think to yourself, well, if he hasn’t learned this by now, and I’ve been saying this for a few years, but I’m probably starting to think that what you see is what you get. now.

“(Nunez is) A talented lad who has great attributes who will certainly have a big role for Liverpool. Two years ago, I thought this kid could be anything. I was so excited in a way to see what it could be. Now I’m starting to think that what we see is what we get.”

Barcelona have reportedly expressed an interest in signing Nunez this summer, but would not have the funds to complete a deal.

However, Liverpool are backing their striker and planning around him for Arne Slot’s debut campaign.