Darwin Nunez Challenge and Two Other Big Liverpool Issues Arne Slot Has to Tackle

Liverpool are set to return from the international break in high spirits after a promising start to the season under new manager Arne Slot. The Reds’ head coach has led his team to a perfect start, securing three consecutive wins, the latest being an impressive 3-0 triumph over Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Furthermore, Liverpool have managed to keep a clean sheet in all three games they’ve played so far. With everything seemingly falling into place at Anfield, the question now arises: what areas does Slot need to focus on when he returns to the AXA Training Ground next week?

Now let’s take a look at what awaits Arne Slot as he resumes his duties following the international break.

Darwin Nunez Challenge

One of the most notable aspects of Arne Slot’s early tenure at Liverpool is how little he has altered things. Many managers, particularly when following someone as influential and beloved as Jurgen Klopp, might feel compelled to quickly make their mark on the team.

However, Slot has shown the confidence to build on Klopp’s foundations, implementing only subtle adjustments to the playing style and the positions of players like Ryan Gravenberch.

Slot’s consistency has extended to his team selection. Across his first three starting line-ups of the season, there has been only one change. Ibrahima Konate retained his spot after replacing Jarell Quansah at half-time during Liverpool’s opening day win against Ipswich.

Slot’s work has been impressive, albeit understated. However, the pressure is likely to intensify after the international break, when Liverpool’s schedule will be packed with Champions League fixtures and Carabao Cup matches.

It will be intriguing to see how Slot adjusts his team in response to the busy schedule. Liverpool boast a wealth of attacking talent, and managing this depth will require Slot to ensure that all players feel confident and satisfied with their playing time.

One such player is Darwin Nunez, whose vibrant personality often keeps him in the spotlight. Now entering his third season with Liverpool, the expectation is that Nunez will begin to score more consistently.

While Klopp struggled to unlock the Uruguayan’s full potential, Slot may be able to do so, much like he has done with Gravenberch.

Currently, Nunez has yet to start a game for the Reds. While this is unlikely to continue, the longer he remains on the bench, the more attention will be drawn to a player who could potentially become Liverpool’s record signing if all add-ons in his contract are triggered.

Federico Chiesa Return

One of Arne Slot’s key strengths, as reported, is his ability to improve his players. So far, this seems to be the case for the Liverpool head coach. Although it’s still early in the season, the performances of Ryan Gravenberch and Ibrahima Konate have significantly improved, with both standing out as key players.

In addition, Luis Diaz has enhanced his goal-scoring capabilities, while Mohamed Salah appears to have regained his best form following a challenging end to last season. Club officials are undoubtedly hoping that Slot will continue to have a similarly positive influence on other players in the squad as time progresses.

One player who could benefit greatly from Slot’s guidance is Federico Chiesa, a summer signing. Acquired for a fee potentially rising to £12 million, Chiesa comes with the caveat of not being the same player since suffering an ACL injury. Nevertheless, he represents a low-risk signing, initially brought in as an option for the right flank.

If Slot can help Chiesa regain his peak form, it could pose a significant challenge for opposing defenders, considering Liverpool’s already impressive roster of six senior attacking players.

Chiesa has been on Liverpool’s radar since his days at Fiorentina, with many suggesting that he could one day replace Mohamed Salah. Now, Chiesa has the opportunity to demonstrate why he was previously considered a potential successor to the Egyptian star.

The Italian winger is an exciting addition to the squad, eager to make his mark at Liverpool after leaving Juventus. If Slot can help him return to top form, Chiesa might even be remembered as one of the best transfer deals Liverpool have made in the Premier League era.

Though it’s a tall order, Chiesa did manage to avoid major injuries last season and continued to score goals. Now, at a club where he is truly valued, fans will be eager to see what kind of impact he can have at Anfield.

Ryan Gravenberch

A key factor in Liverpool’s impressive start to the season has been the outstanding form of Ryan Gravenberch, who is flourishing in the No.6 position. The Dutch international has dispelled any concerns about his ability to thrive in this role, particularly during his performance at Old Trafford.

He was the best player on the field and the most notable former Ajax player in a match featuring several. It’s likely that Erik ten Hag had plenty to ponder as Gravenberch delivered a commanding display against his old manager’s team.

Liverpool’s interest in Martin Zubimendi, with a £51 million bid last month, indicated the club’s desire for more control in the defensive midfield area. While this may remain a long-term priority in future transfer windows, for now, Gravenberch has secured his place in the lineup and is a key figure for the team.

Ensuring Gravenberch remains fit and confident is essential, and his style—calm under pressure and resistant to the press—has been a critical part of Liverpool’s midfield strategy. His performance has exemplified the positive impact Arne Slot’s arrival has had on his game.

One of Slot’s firsts tasks will be to get Gravenberch back to full fitness as soon as possible. He is currently playing with renewed confidence, and Liverpool will want that momentum to continue.

The discussions around the need for a specialized No.6 have quieted, especially after Gravenberch’s dominant showing against Manchester United. Liverpool hopes his excellent form continues.

In other Liverpool news, Liverpool Could Owe Former Player Some Credit If Mohamed Salah Agrees to a New Anfield Contract