Arne Slot Shuts Down Darwin Nunez Bust-Up Rumors, Offers Clarity on Striker’s Absence
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has dismissed recent rumours suggesting a dispute between himself and Darwin Nunez after the striker was unexpectedly absent from Liverpool’s squad in their recent Premier League clash against West Ham United. The Uruguayan forward’s name was missing from the team sheet for the match at Anfield, sparking speculation that he might have had a training ground confrontation with a member of the coaching staff at the AXA Training Centre.
However, Slot has firmly denied those allegations and offered a more straightforward explanation for Nunez’s omission. According to the Liverpool boss, Nunez had simply been feeling unwell ahead of the game and was therefore not in the right condition to participate in the fixture. Slot explained that Nunez’s absence was due to him “not feeling himself” the day before the match, which led to him being pulled out of team activities and ultimately missing the game against West Ham.
“There was no falling-out,” Slot stated in response to the speculation. “Darwin left the pitch during training because he wasn’t feeling like himself. That doesn’t mean there was a disagreement or argument with anyone. He just didn’t feel right physically or mentally, and so he went inside to rest. The following day, he was unable to be part of the squad because of that.”
Despite not playing, Nunez was present at Anfield for the game, watching from behind the substitutes’ bench alongside fellow teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold. Trent is also expected to return to the squad soon, with the right-back having resumed training and potentially being available for selection in the next game against Leicester City, scheduled for Easter Sunday.
Slot further assured fans that Nunez is in better condition now and is expected to return to the matchday squad for the upcoming clash at the King Power Stadium. This match holds high significance for Liverpool as they edge closer to securing the Premier League title. Depending on other results, particularly Arsenal’s performance away at Ipswich Town, the Reds could mathematically clinch the title with a win on Sunday.
Looking ahead to the title race, Slot acknowledged the pressure but also embraced the opportunity. He mentioned that while it may seem like a surprise to some that Liverpool is in a position to potentially win their second Premier League title in five years, he believes the expectations placed on a club of Liverpool’s stature naturally come with the territory.
“I understand that people might find it surprising that we’re on the verge of winning the title, especially in my first season here,” Slot admitted. “But this is Liverpool Football Club. It’s one of the biggest clubs in the world, with a history and culture of winning. So it shouldn’t come as a major shock that we’re in this position. We have worked hard for it, and the players have shown great commitment throughout the season.”
With the return of key players like Nunez and Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool will be hoping to maintain their momentum as the season nears its climax. Slot’s calm dismissal of the bust-up rumours helps to refocus attention on the team’s achievements and their pursuit of more silverware, rather than on off-field distractions.
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