I may be taking a risk, but I am absolutely convinced that Darwin Núñez, who has just turned 23, will score an absolute goal in the Liverpool red.
The best long-term goal predictor is xG, and the Uruguayan’s xG/90, which is 0.89 this season, actually beats Erling Haaland’s. Nunez’s composure, completion and decision-making have been lacking thus far, but his potential is otherworldly.
In fact, he has scored three times in his last three starts, but opinion is still dividing. That’s because he could have scored another five or six on top of that. The movement of him and sheer, physical brutality of him is unbelievable. Against West Ham last time out, where he scored an excellent winning goal, Nunez posted a speed of 38 km/h, the fastest ever run by a Premier League footballer. He also came close to scoring two wonderful goals to add to his clinical header. All this before minute 57, when he was substituted.
More stories / Last News
Each match he looks more comfortable and tactically safer. He will miss opportunities, lots of them, but the volume of shots he takes from good positions means goals are guaranteed.
Stats aside, it’s exceptionally fun to watch. It’s all action, all the time. There will be some crazy moments for sure, but the £85m Liverpool spent on Nunez will one day feel like a bargain. 100 goals for 26. You heard it here first.
Jordan Chamberlain, Empire of the Kop
