Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez has ignited a firestorm among supporters after posting — and swiftly deleting — a cryptic message on X (formerly Twitter) questioning his lack of starts under new manager Arne Slot. The post came at a crucial moment, with Liverpool just one point away from securing their 20th English top-flight title, matching Manchester United’s record.
The 25-year-old Uruguayan, signed from Benfica in 2022, wrote in Spanish, “No wonder I didn’t play more, because the last game I started in the Premier League went well and suddenly…” before removing the comment. However, screenshots circulated rapidly among fans, who were quick to label his actions as immature and disrespectful.
Fallout as Liverpool Fans Demand Darwin Nunez ’s Exit
The timing of Darwin Nunez ’s outburst has particularly angered Liverpool’s faithful, who see it as a betrayal ahead of a potentially historic achievement. Many fans took to social media to slam the striker for airing grievances just as the team stands on the brink of Premier League glory.
One furious fan posted: “A day before a historic title win, after being supported all the way through — extremely immature and wrong. Darwin Nunez should be sold first.” Another wrote, “Darwin’s post about not starting is unforgivable. Truly unprofessional and disrespectful to Arne Slot who gave him opportunities. Especially a day before becoming champions. He has to go.” The backlash reflects a growing consensus that Nunez’s future at Anfield looks increasingly uncertain.
Slot Denies Bonus Clause Influence on Team Selection
Speculation had surfaced suggesting that Liverpool were deliberately limiting Darwin Nunez ’s appearances to avoid triggering a €5 million (£4.3m) bonus payment to Benfica, should he reach 50 starts. At present, the striker has started 49 matches across the Premier League and Champions League since joining the club.
However, Arne Slot quickly moved to dismiss these claims. Speaking to reporters, the Dutchman said, “Do you always believe what journalists say? Not always? Me neither. Sometimes you should, but sometimes it’s better not to believe everything that is written about players. This is completely new to me.” Slot emphasized that his decisions were based purely on sporting merit and the team’s best interests, not financial considerations.
Poor Form and Competition Compound Darwin Nunez ’s Struggles
Darwin Nunez ’s frustration stems from a significant reduction in playing time since Slot took over from Jurgen Klopp. Falling behind Diogo Jota and Cody Gakpo in the pecking order, he has not started a Premier League match since Liverpool’s 3-1 win over Southampton in March 2025.
His struggles in front of goal have not helped his case. Despite moments of brilliance, the Uruguayan international has often been criticized for wastefulness and inconsistency. In comparison to Manchester City’s Erling Haaland — signed the same summer — Nunez’s impact has been underwhelming, leading many to question whether he still has a future at Anfield.
Summer Exit Appears Inevitable for the Discontented Striker
With relations between Nunez and the Liverpool fanbase now severely strained, a summer departure seems almost inevitable. Even before this latest controversy, there were strong indications that Liverpool would listen to offers for the forward, particularly as they aim to strengthen ahead of next season’s campaigns.
The timing and nature of Nunez’s deleted post have only accelerated calls for his exit. What was once seen as a promising £85 million signing now appears to be a chapter coming to an unceremonious close. Liverpool’s next moves in the transfer market could very well center around finding a reliable and more disciplined replacement for the troubled Uruguayan.
