Darwin lifts lid on deleted Instagram posts after Klopp snub

Stuart Telford

• Updated: 23 May 2024 09:19 BST
• 3 min read

Darwin Nunez has cut a frustrated figure at Liverpool in recent weeks, and failed to clap for Jurgen Klopp during the manager's Anfield farewell.

Darwin joined Liverpool from Benfica in the summer of 2022 in a deal that could eventually rise to €100 million, with Klopp having previously waxed lyrical about his ability.

"Extremely good looking boy, huh?" the German had said when Liverpool faced Benfica in the previous season's Champions League. "And a decent player as well."

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But the Uruguayan's form has been erratic since. In the season just finished he scored 11 Premier League goals, but should have had 16 according to his xG, with his misses providing fan fodder on social media.

Darwin was increasingly dropped by Klopp before the manager brought the curtain down on nine glittering seasons at Anfield, and refused to clap for him during his guard of honour against Wolves on the final day.

Having previously deleted every single Instagram post showing him in a Liverpool kit, Darwin fuelled speculation of an imminent transfer away, with Barcelona among those reportedly showing interest.

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Darwin explains his actions

"Before, I did look at [negative comments] and it affected me," he told ESPN Uruguay. "Whoever says that those negative comments don't affect them is lying, those negative comments that are directed towards you will always affect you.

"I never look at the negative comments on social media - at least now I'm not looking at anything, not even the good stuff."

Darwin has reportedly struggled to learn English in his time at Anfield, and although Barcelona may have a) Robert Lewandowski and b) a €1.3 billion debt, a move to Spain would seem likely given his further comments about where he feels at home.

"I feel like my home is when I'm in the national team," he said. "That's when you get together with your people, you can talk to everyone, and you feel comfortable in the national team."