‘Darwin Nunez to start vs Aston Villa’ – Liverpool fans react to Cody Gakpo update
Liverpool fans took to social media to react to Arne Slot’s update on Cody Gakpo’s fitness ahead of their midweek clash against Aston Villa
The Reds secured a 2-1 win against Wolves at Anfield on Sunday, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League table to seven points. Goals from Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah gave Liverpool control, but Matheus Cunha’s second-half strike made for a tense finish.
Gakpo was absent from the squad due to injury, and after the match, Slot provided an update on his condition, stating that it remains “under debate” whether the Dutch forward will be fit in time for their crucial clash against Aston Villa on 19 February [via premierleague.com]
Following this update, many Liverpool fans have taken to social media to call for Darwin Nunez to start the match, despite his inconsistent performances this season.
Arne Slot tipped to restore Darwin Nunez to Liverpool team
The Uruguay international has had a frustrating season, making just seven Premier League starts despite featuring in 34 matches across all competitions.
Nunez was linked with a move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr during the January transfer window, but the club ultimately decided to pursue Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran instead.
Football Insider revealed that Liverpool are open to offers for Nunez and could consider selling him in the summer to generate funds for new signings.
Slot has not shown full trust in the striker this season, often opting for Diaz, Diogo Jota, and Gakpo ahead of him despite those options primarily playing on the wing. As a result, Nunez’s goal output has suffered, with just six goals and five assists to his name.
Although he was left on the bench against Wolves, Slot may have no choice but to rely on him for the upcoming fixture against Aston Villa.
Liverpool fans call for Darwin Nunez to start against Aston Villa
Some Liverpool supporters have been critical of the club’s attacking options this season, particularly Diaz, and believe Nunez deserves an opportunity due to the team’s current injury situation.
The striker has shown flashes of brilliance—his late brace against Brentford being a prime example—but his inconsistency may explain why Slot has been reluctant to start him regularly.
Gakpo, in contrast, has started 16 of his 24 Premier League appearances and has netted 16 goals in all competitions, making him a reliable option in front of goal. Replicating that impact will be a challenge for the Uruguayan, but many fans are eager to see him given the chance.
One fan commented that Nunez “better be saved for Villa” after he was named on the bench against Wolves, while another pointed out that the striker “has always given Villa issues” backing him to start.