Liverpool’s new signing has made a bright start to his career and showed against Fulham just how dangerous he could be for this new team.
Darwin Nunez began his Premier League career with a goal and an assist in just 39 minutes of second-half action on debut.
But what stood out the most was how much better Liverpool looked when he came onto the pitch.
His presence, movement and hunger elevated the levels of the side as he shocked fans with his expected goals statistic on the opening weekend of the PL.
Darwin Núñez's game by numbers vs. Fulham:
39 minutes played
15 touches
7 touches in opp. box
4 shots
3 shots on target
3 duels won
2 chances created
1 goal
1 assistAlready off the mark in the Premier League. 💪 pic.twitter.com/dZ5xERdTq9
— Squawka (@Squawka) August 6, 2022
Nunez the ‘xG monster’
With Roberto Firmino starting up front, Liverpool had only mustered a total of 0.10xG before Nunez was subbed on.
Following his introduction, Liverpool got a much-needed energy boost which saw the whole team lift its levels as Nunez bagged a goal and an assist in quick time.
His levels are clearly shown here as he ranked above Erling Haaland and Pascal Gross – both of whom scored two goals each and the fact that all the other players on the list started their respective matches whilst Nunez didn’t.
Most xG accumulated in Gameweek 1:
◎ D. Nüñez – 1.70 (1⚽️)
◎ E. Haaland – 1.59 (2⚽️)
◎ P. Gross – 1.25 (2⚽️)
◎ A. Mitrovic – 0.97 (2⚽️)
◎ G. Martinelli – 0.88 (1⚽️)— The xG Philosophy (@xGPhilosophy) August 9, 2022
His performance was so impressive as he had three big chances, an expected assist of 0.69, three shots on target and a non-penalty xG of 1.69 – all in 39 minutes.
The flavour of chaos that Nunez created should put him good stead; he’s a player who creates chances all on his own but he also makes brilliant runs that will definitely be found by the talent in this Liverpool team.
With Crystal Palace at home, United away followed by Bournemouth and Newcastle at home – Nunez will certainly be in line to cause major issues against teams Liverpool should dominate. He may be a shout for your Fantasy Teams ahead of other names such as Gabriel Jesus.
Nunez signed a five-year deal worth €115,000 (£100,000) per week and is expected to lead the line for years to come.
