BREAKING NEWS: coming live from Stamford bridge, “He starting that match was a crime and a big risk. He doesn’t even deserve to be on the bench he should be sent out on exile. It’s was a bad performance from him, he lost so much possession that cost us that match, he’s just a game killer”. Football legend furious with Liverpool player after horrible performance yesterday against well organized Nottingham forest. “He ruined my night”, “Shouldn’t have started” – Liverpool legend furious with Arne slot for late sub of 26-year-old in match vs Nottingham forest.

Welcome to the Premier League, Arne Slot! Liverpool’s new manager had a harsh introduction to the competition on Saturday, as his team suffered a 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest at Anfield. This loss marked Liverpool’s first defeat of the Premier League season, with Callum Hudson-Odoi scoring the decisive goal that spoiled the Reds’ perfect start.

Before the international break, Liverpool were riding high after a commanding win over Manchester United, displaying a style of play reminiscent of Jurgen Klopp’s prime years. However, against Forest, they struggled both defensively and offensively. Despite dominating possession, they couldn’t find their rhythm in the final third, and their lack of sharpness in attack proved costly.

Alan Shearer, speaking on *Match of the Day*, pointed out that Liverpool became “so frustrated” with Nottingham Forest’s tactics. Forest set up a compact defense in the middle of the pitch, making it difficult for Liverpool to break through. This frustrated Arne Slot’s side as they failed to create any clear scoring opportunities, even after making changes from the bench.

Darwin Nunez was among the substitutes brought on to spark Liverpool’s attack, replacing Diogo Jota just after the hour mark. However, Shearer was critical of Nunez’s performance, particularly during a key moment in the match. The Premier League’s all-time top scorer commented that Nunez “wasn’t strong enough” in a battle for the ball with Forest defender Nikola Milenkovic. This led to Forest regaining possession, counter-attacking, and scoring the only goal of the game through Hudson-Odoi.

Shearer went on to say that Nunez “didn’t add anything to the game,” and Liverpool’s inability to adapt to Forest’s compact defense was a significant factor in their defeat. Forest, he said, were “magnificent” throughout the match, executing their game plan to perfection. Given Liverpool’s form leading into the game, Forest had to be nearly flawless, and they were. Their defense remained tight, allowing Liverpool little to no space to operate in the midfield or final third.

Shearer also highlighted the individual performances of Forest’s full-backs, with Moreno effectively containing Mohamed Salah and Aina doing the same on the opposite side against Luis Diaz. Milenkovic and Murillo were also pivotal in Forest’s defense, constantly putting their bodies on the line to block Liverpool’s attacks.

The defining moment of the match came when Milenkovic outmuscled Nunez to win the ball, triggering a swift counter-attack. Substitute Anthony Elanga sprinted forward, linking up with Hudson-Odoi, who had also come off the bench. Hudson-Odoi unleashed a stunning right-footed shot from the edge of the penalty box, which smashed off the crossbar and into the net, sealing the victory for Forest.

Nunez’s Struggles Continue

Nunez’s struggles at Liverpool have been ongoing since his high-profile transfer in 2022. Despite the hefty price tag, he has yet to establish himself as a regular starter under either Jurgen Klopp or now Arne Slot. His inconsistent performances are becoming a problem for the team, especially as Liverpool cannot afford to carry a player who isn’t contributing regularly in front of goal.

With Mohamed Salah’s future at the club uncertain amid transfer rumors, Liverpool need to know they have reliable goalscoring options behind him. Unfortunately, Nunez hasn’t proven to be that player yet. His inability to deliver consistently could see him pushed further down the pecking order, especially if his form doesn’t improve by the end of the season.

If Nunez’s performances remain indifferent, there’s a growing possibility that his time at Anfield may come to an end sooner rather than later. Liverpool invested heavily in him, expecting immediate results, but the lack of progress is beginning to raise doubts about his future at the club. Should Salah depart, Liverpool will need someone to step up, and if Nunez can’t do it, the club might look elsewhere for reinforcements.

What’s Next for Liverpool?

The defeat to Nottingham Forest serves as a reminder that Arne Slot and his team still have work to do to maintain their early-season momentum. While they remain near the top of the table, losses like this highlight areas of vulnerability, especially in breaking down compact defenses. Slot will need to address these issues quickly as the season progresses, with bigger challenges ahead.

Liverpool will now turn their attention to their upcoming UEFA Champions League campaign, where they face AC Milan at the San Siro. Slot will hope his team can quickly bounce back from this defeat and regain the form that saw them dismantle Manchester United just a few weeks ago.

For now, though, Liverpool and their fans will be left to reflect on a frustrating day at Anfield, with Nunez’s performance under scrutiny and Hudson-Odoi’s strike proving the difference between the two sides.