Liverpool sought Luis Suarez’s assistance in advising Darwin Nunez on his early performance with the Reds. Nunez faced initial challenges in settling at Anfield last season, exhibiting a visible lack of confidence despite scoring 15 goals in all competitions. However, the narrative has shifted this year, with Nunez displaying joy and rejuvenation, marked by significant improvements on the pitch. In an interview with ESPN Argentina this week, it appears that Liverpool legend Suarez may have played a role in this notable turnaround.

“I told Darwin about [taking] the number 9 [for Uruguay] in Qatar and we always talked about it before,” began the Gremio striker. “He has a potential, a technical ability and a physical power that is proving it.

“I, as a teammate, am not surprised because I knew, until last year when he had a bad time in Liverpool I spoke with him, in Liverpool they told me to talk to him. I warned him and told him what English football was. He, with the heart he has, opened up and told me what had happened to him at that moment, we talked about it. I told him that when I leave I want him to take it.

“That’s why, if you listen to Darwin’s statements, he says it with total sincerity. As a colleague, I’m happy for him; I was talking about it internally, and before the match with Brazil. These are things that we are happy about as teammates, we are different, we are from different generations, and I am happy for the moment he is living in his club and in the national team.”

Suarez reveals Nunez chat

It comes as no surprise to learn that Luis Suarez has been providing guidance and support to Darwin Nunez during his time at Liverpool. This isn’t the first instance where the 37-year-old has publicly acknowledged his mentorship role. While it’s likely that Suarez was already offering his advice, the fact that Liverpool officially reached out to him for help is intriguing.

The longstanding connection between Suarez and Nunez, predating Nunez’s move to Liverpool, stems from their time as teammates with Uruguay. Leveraging the insights of one of the greatest forwards of a generation is a wise move for the Reds. Despite Nunez’s occasional misses, his recent performances, such as orchestrating play against Brentford, reflect significant progress. With Suarez in his corner, Nunez stands a better chance of reaching higher levels, reminiscent of Suarez’s impactful tenure at Anfield a decade ago.