Darwin Nunez could cost Liverpool in Carabao Cup final v Newcastle if he starts
Liverpool take on Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday at the Wembley Stadium.
Arne Slot’s men have a shot at winning their first silverware of the season as they face Eddie Howe’s Newcastle, who are trying to win their first trophy under their owners.
The Reds dismantled West Ham, Brighton and Southampton to reach the semi-finals where they faced Tottenham, and despite losing the first-leg, they bounced back at Anfield to advance to the final.
Newcastle eliminated Chelsea and Arsenal on their way to reach the final, as they aim to break their major trophy drought that has existed for 69 years.
Liverpool’s victory is not guaranteed
Although Liverpool could be considered as favourites given their dominance this season, nothing is set in stone in a final. The Reds were eliminated from the UEFA Champions League in midweek as they lost to Paris Saint-Germain on penalties, ending their European run.
The Merseysiders will want to put the sorrow of a European exit to bed and jump into the final to clinch their 11th League Cup title.
The Magpies have lethal players like Alexander Isak who can inflict pain on Liverpool, who is Newcastle’s biggest threat to come in between them and the trophy.
Slot needs to name the strongest possible eleven and having Darwin Nunez start may hurt Liverpool’s chances of winning the trophy.
The Uruguayan hasn’t exactly had a fruitful season, with ony seven goals and seven assists in 39 games.
| Opposition | Home/Away |
| Newcastle United | Neutral |
| Everton | Home |
| Fulham | Away |
| West Ham | Home |
He has been a bench player in the league, often called in the second half to provide some fresh legs and help the Reds in cementing their position. However, in the Carabao Cup, the former Benfica striker has played regularly, netting once and providing two assists in five appearances.
However, the 25-year-old has struggled in front of the goal and starting him in place of Diogo Jota could backfire. Nunez is known for his inconsistency, and will miss easy sitters, but then there will be times he will score spectacular goals leaving everyone stunned.
There will be no second chances in the final and the Merseysiders cannot afford to miss vital goalscoring chances. In such a scenario, starting Jota would be beneficial as compared to Nunez.
Liverpool cruising under Slot
While their European dream might have ended, Liverpool are on another planet domestically. They are 15 points clear of Arsenal and their Premier League title is almost guaranteed.
With the Carabao Cup final on Sunday, Slot could potentially guide his team to two titles in his first season at Anfield, a commendable feat.
This could also be the last season for Mohamed Salah at Liverpool and sending him off with a Premier League and a League Cup will be a fitting farewell.