Luis Suarez was “told” to talk to Darwin Nunez after “bad time in Liverpool” – “I warned him” – Liverpool FC

Darwin Nunez‘s debut season in English football has been nothing short of a whirlwind, and his compatriot Luis Suarez has been instrumental in guiding him to success at Anfield.

Nunez’s time at Liverpool got off to a rocky start, with a red card for a ‘headbutt’ setting back his integration into the team, leaving Jurgen Klopp wanting more from his overall game.

Fast forward a season, and Klopp is singing praises for his No. 9’s “exceptional” ability to link up the game and his defensive work ethic, two traits that the manager emphasized wanting to see.

Suarez, a role model for Nunez, has been there to support the 24-year-old since his move to Anfield, even offering a few ‘warnings’ – having himself needed to navigate the subtleties of English football tactics.

“He has the potential, technical prowess, and physical strength, which he is now demonstrating,” Suarez told AUF TV, via ESPN Uruguay.

“As a teammate, I’m not surprised because I knew, even during his tough time at Liverpool last year, I had spoken to him after being urged to do so by Liverpool. I advised and warned him about what English football entails.

“With the huge heart he possesses, he opened up and shared his experiences with me, and we openly discussed it.”

The pair will have more opportunities to chat and exchange stories and advice during the international break, with Suarez being called up to the Uruguay squad by Marcelo Bielsa – however, he won’t be vying for his usual No. 9 shirt, as that now belongs to Nunez.

“Also, regarding the number 9 shirt in the national team, I made it clear that when I depart, I want him to take it. This is why, if you hear Darwin’s comments, he speaks with absolute sincerity,” Suarez said regarding the No. 9 shirt discussions in Uruguay.

“As a teammate, I am thrilled for him; internally, I mentioned it, and before the game with Brazil.

“These are moments that we, as teammates, are delighted about. We come from different backgrounds, different generations, and I am delighted to see the success he’s enjoying with his club and national team.”

Nunez currently boasts seven goals and five assists this season, a stark contrast to his “tough time in Liverpool,” while Suarez recently scored a hat-trick within 19 minutes in a boost to Gremio’s underdog title pursuit.