In the 2-2 draw between Liverpool and Fulham, Diogo Jota once again proved his worth with just one moment of brilliance. The Portuguese striker's skillful turn and cool finish in the final minutes of the match helped The Kop avoid defeat, while affirming that he was still a reliable choice in the center forward position.
During Jota's two-month absence due to injury, Darwin Nunez had the opportunity to assert himself. However, the Uruguayan striker did not make the most of this period due to the lack of stability that the team needed. Jota's goal against Fulham was a clear testament to the difference between the two players. If Nunez were put in a similar situation, it would be difficult to guarantee a similar result.
Jota's return raises questions about whether manager Arne Slot should prioritize him as a 'number 9' or continue to use Nunez in matches against opponents with less pressure. However, the story does not stop at the number of goals but also the way the two players perform on the field.
Statistics show that Diogo Jota is superior in his ability to choose positions. The 28-year-old star often waits for opportunities in central areas, where the possibility of scoring is highest - mainly within 12 meters of the goal. In contrast, Nunez tends to finish from many different positions, including unfavorable shooting angles, which leads to lower performance.
Jota's expected goals (xG) is 0.19 per shot, significantly higher than Nunez (0.13). Jota's efficiency is also shown in the fact that he has scored 3 goals from the last 5 shots, while Nunez still has difficulty taking advantage of clear-cut opportunities.
Jota not only scores goals but also knows how to create space to take advantage of opportunities. Typically, in the match against Crystal Palace in October, he crossed into the center of the penalty area to receive a pass from Cody Gakpo and scored the decisive goal. In contrast, Nunez lacks consistency. The Uruguayan striker has the ability to score unbelievable goals but often miss top-ten opportunities.
Under Slot, wingers such as Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo played an important role in scoring. This has caused Nunez's shots to drop significantly, from 4.5 shots per game last season to 2.4 shots per game in the Premier League this season. Along with that, often drifting away from the goal to support the defense, the former Benfica player cannot make a big impact in the role of center forward.
However, Arne Slot has defended Darwin Nunez against criticism, emphasizing that he judges a striker not only by the number of goals but also by his overall contribution to the team.
"If we only look at the number of goals, Nunez has not met expectations. However, he contributed positively in his pressing ability, helping us win the ball back and creating opportunities. I don't just judge Salah or Nunez by their goals but also by their attitude and work ethic, which both of them have shown well, Slot shared.
However, to succeed, Arne Slot needs a complete striker who can score and actively support both inside and outside of possession. This is Jota's strength, who was once described by Pep Lijnders - former Liverpool assistant coach - as a "pressingmonster". With the ability to effectively press and be sharp in the penalty area, the Portuguese striker is always the top choice when the team needs to win.
Despite being overshadowed by Jota, Nunez has made significant improvements under Slot, especially in his pressing ability. This season, he has made 15 tackles in the Premier League, winning 13 of them - surpassing the whole of last season. However, most of these tackles have come in the home field, showing that the Uruguayan star often leaves the scoring area, which is not ideal for a number 9.
Nunez's role in the squad will depend on the importance of each match. With Jota healthy and in good form, Nunez may have to wait patiently for the opportunity. However, when given the opportunity, the 25-year-old striker needs to make the most of it to prove that he is worthy of the official position.
