Markus Babbel makes exciting predictions about transfers from Darwin Nunez and Liverpool
Markus Babbel on Darwin Nunez, Virgil van Dijk and Liverpool’s plan for midfield reinforcements
Darwin Nunez’s success at Liverpool shouldn’t be measured by his £64m price tag, according to former Anfield hero Markus Babbel.
Nunez has had a busy season since his potential record transfer from Benfica, with the player and Jurgen Klopp’s squad entering a period of transition. However, despite the collective struggles, the Uruguayan scored an impressive 15 goals in 24 appearances in all competitions.
However, with Liverpool needing a near-perfect run in the Premier League to have any hope of qualifying for next season’s Champions League following defeat to Manchester City in early April, the 23-year-old has been overlooked by the manager Klopp in six of his last nine games before a toe injury, which sidelined him for recent appearances against Leicester City and Aston Villa.
Instead, Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah were staples of the Reds squad who took 22 points from the last 24 offered. Reviewing Nunez’s first season in English football, Babbel, who won four major trophies during his Liverpool career, told German publication Wettfreunde: ‘It should be remembered that [Nunez] is still a young player and needs some It takes some getting used to.” The Premier League.
Reviewing Nunez’s first season in English football, Babbel, who won four major trophies during his Liverpool career, told German publication Wettfreunde: ‘It should be remembered that [Nunez] is still a young player and needs some It takes some getting used to.” The Premier League.
Also, with Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo and Mo Salah, Liverpool have four missiles and Nunez must continue playing in his unloved position. Add to this the fact that he moved to Liverpool when things were not going well for the Reds. expectations placed upon him were unprecedented, as was the high transfer fee. “It wasn’t easy for the boy. It shouldn’t be measured by the odds. I think it was a great transfer. He’s on the right track. Next season he will find it easier.”
Even Babbel, who has been dropped 51 times by Germany, believes the Reds should add two midfielders at opposite ends of the spectrum; one with a maximum of years ahead and another who could replace James Milner, who will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of June. “I can imagine they might be looking for an experienced midfielder to replace James Milner and sign a prospect,” Babbel added. “They also have great talents in their own ranks like Curtis Jones or Harvey Elliott, who have always caused a stir, as well as Stefan Bajcetic. Liverpool will be a great midfielder in 2023-2024.”
And reflecting on the Reds’ difficult season in the Premier League, in which they settled for fifth place, Babbel believes Virgil Van Dijk’s form should offer plenty of hope ahead of the new season.
“Virgil had to keep playing even though he wasn’t 100% because Klopp had too many injured players in defence,” Babbel said. “It was difficult for him to get into the rhythm.” “If you’re completely out for six months, you need a few months to reach your full potential again. He certainly would have needed a few regeneration phases, but he almost never had them. That’s why I say : big compliments for the last 7-8 matchdays, it was great.
“Who would have thought a few weeks ago that Liverpool would fight to the end for the Champions League places. Hats off. This final sprint gives a lot of confidence for the new season.”