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Darwin Nunez broke down after scoring his first goal in 14 games for Liverpool, prompting Van Dijk to offer his shoulder for the Uruguayan to cry on.
After a challenging spell, Darwin Nunez finally broke his goal drought on Saturday, scoring in Liverpool's 3-0 victory against Bournemouth.
The Uruguayan striker’s emotional celebration reflected the weight of his struggles, but Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk was quick to offer supportive words and advice.
Nunez had not found the back of the net since April, a stretch that saw him face increased scrutiny from fans.
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His goal against Bournemouth, a well-taken strike that showcased his pace and precision, marked a pivotal moment in his season. Following the match, an emotional Nunez was visibly moved, shedding tears of relief and joy.
Van Dijk, recognizing the significance of the moment, emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and consistency. "Any striker faces pressure, especially when they carry a price tag like Darwin’s. It's crucial for him to stay calm," the Dutch defender said. He credited the collective effort of the team and head coach Arne Slot for supporting Nunez during his challenging period.
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"Darwin worked incredibly hard, not just offensively but defensively too," Van Dijk noted. "He earned that goal through sheer effort. The fans appreciate that about him—they love his work rate and direct style. It's a testament to his character."
Van Dijk cautioned Nunez against getting carried away with the emotional highs of scoring. "Now is the time for him to recover and prepare for the next opportunity," he stated. "Consistency is key in football, and we want him to keep that momentum going."
The Liverpool captain also highlighted the role of the squad in nurturing Nunez's confidence. "We’re all here to support him, and the manager is focused on helping him as well," Van Dijk added. "He needs to stay grounded and not get too high or low with the ups and downs."
Liverpool will look ahead to upcoming fixtures, including a Carabao Cup match against West Ham and the focus will be on maintaining the positive trajectory Nunez has begun.
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