Ian Wright Predicts Potential Shift in Premier League Dynamics with Darwin Nunez’s Improvement

Former Arsenal legend and pundit Ian Wright has suggested that Liverpool could emerge as strong contenders for the Premier League title if forward Darwin Nunez manages to improve his scoring consistency. Wright expressed his views during a recent discussion, highlighting that Liverpool could become a formidable challenge for both Manchester City and Arsenal if their new signing, led by manager Arne Slot, could refine certain aspects of his game.

“Can you imagine, can you imagine if Nunez could score consistently?” said Wright. “That’s a lot of money to pay for a squad player. I see [Diogo] Jota as the main man, he’s an impact player and that’s a lot of money for an impact player,” he added.

Nunez, who signed for Liverpool from Benfica in 2022 for an initial fee of £64 million, has faced challenges in securing a permanent starting position. The Uruguayan has been criticized for issues such as staying onside and wasting goal-scoring opportunities. Despite the high expectations, Nunez has managed to start only one Premier League match this season, often being overshadowed by Portuguese teammate Diogo Jota.

Wright explained his views further, stating, “I’ve seen enough of him now. I thought at some stage it would click for him, but it’s not clicked in for him. If it clicked in for him then Liverpool are definitely easily favourites, easily one of the favourites. Liverpool with a firing Darwin Nunez, I’m telling you, it’s a massive problem.”

The pundit also emphasized the importance of maintaining the fitness of Liverpool’s star players, Alisson Becker, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah, who are regarded as crucial to the club’s success. The trio’s fitness is seen as more vital than improving Nunez’s output, according to Wright. Alisson is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, but Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to fill in during his absence.

In related news, reports suggest that Liverpool’s right-back, Trent Alexander-Arnold, may be a target for Real Madrid if he chooses not to renew his contract, which expires at the end of the season. Meanwhile, Liverpool continues to express interest in Martin Zubimendi, despite Manchester City’s interest following an injury to their key midfielder, Rodri. However, Zubimendi has indicated a preference to remain at Real Sociedad for the foreseeable future.