"Liverpool are relying on Núñez, who came through in the match against Newcastle."

"Liverpool are relying on Núñez, who came through in the match against Newcastle."

 Darwin Núñez's year-long journey to make his mark at Liverpool has finally borne fruit, and the timing couldn't have been more perfect. The Uruguayan forward emerged as a game-changer during the match against Newcastle United, securing victory for Jurgen Klopp's team with two late goals after coming on as a substitute. This performance may well have revealed the true potential that has been talked about.

Following his record-breaking transfer from Benfica in the summer of 2022, a deal that could potentially cost Liverpool £85 million, Núñez has experienced both highs and lows. While glimpses of his exceptional talent have shone through, they have often been overshadowed by inconsistent finishing, erratic decision-making, and a tendency to lose focus when opponents deliberately provoke him. At times, this has made him seem more of a liability than an asset.

However, beneath the surface, there has always been something promising about Núñez. He is akin to a raw diamond that requires polishing before becoming the polished gem, and while his past frustrations have raised questions about his potential, he has entered this season with uncertainty surrounding his ability to truly shine for Liverpool.

Núñez's two crucial goals at St. James' Park, securing a 2-1 triumph even with Liverpool reduced to ten players due to Virgil van Dijk's early red card, may not completely dispel doubts. Nonetheless, the clinical manner in which he seized his opportunities must have provided Klopp with immense relief. The team is in dire need of Núñez's success this season, and these moments might just be the start.

Klopp praised Núñez's stellar performance, acknowledging his fervor resulting from not being in the starting lineup. The manager emphasized that while it's still early in the season and stability is required, Núñez's role is guaranteed despite the challenges.

"He's scored two goals and he's got a big smile on his face."

Recruited as a crucial part of Liverpool's strategy to navigate a future without Sadio Mané, Roberto Firmino, and Mohamed Salah, Núñez's first year at Anfield was undoubtedly challenging. He managed a mere nine goals in the Premier League and an additional six across other competitions, earning him a modest scorecard at best.

With Firmino's departure upon the expiration of his contract and Mané's move to Bayern Munich a year prior, only Salah remains from the famed trio that brought Champions League and Premier League glory. Consequently, the time has come for Núñez to step up. Despite not yet earning a starting spot this season, Klopp has utilized him as a substitute in all three of Liverpool's fixtures, suggesting uncertainty in optimizing his potential.