Darwin Núñez Makes His Case in Style as Liverpool Crush Stoke City 5–0 in Preseason Clash
With Liverpool reportedly closing in on a record-breaking move for Hugo Ekitiké, Darwin Núñez delivered a powerful reminder of his value. In a behind-closed-doors preseason friendly at the AXA Training Centre, Núñez stole the show with a blistering first-half hat-trick, helping Liverpool dismantle Stoke City 5–0 and reigniting discussion about his place in the squad under new manager Arne Slot.
Núñez Shines with First-Half Hat-Trick
Just hours after reports surfaced suggesting Liverpool were nearing an £82.3 million ($110.5 million) deal for Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitiké, Núñez wasted no time showing he still has a lot to offer. The Uruguayan striker opened the scoring just six minutes in, pouncing on a misdirected pass intended for Dominik Szoboszlai.
He added two more goals before the 20-minute mark, completing a rapid 14-minute hat-trick that effectively ended the game as a contest. Despite the low-stakes nature of the friendly, Núñez’s performance couldn’t have come at a more pivotal moment for his Liverpool career.
Wirtz and Ngumoha Impress in Preseason Runout
The friendly also saw the unofficial debut of summer signing Florian Wirtz, who played a role in Núñez’s opener. The 21-year-old German midfielder is Liverpool’s most expensive signing this summer and is already showing signs of chemistry with the existing squad.
Adding to the excitement, 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha netted Liverpool’s fourth goal after earning a second preseason start. The young winger is quickly becoming a standout in Slot’s early preparations, following his previous appearance against Preston North End.
Chiesa Caps Off Dominant Display
After making a full set of halftime substitutions, Liverpool maintained control in the second half. Federico Chiesa, another high-profile signing, sealed the 5–0 win with a well-taken strike. Though the match offered no official silverware, it was a confidence-boosting performance with positive contributions across the board.
Núñez Stakes His Claim as Ekitiké Deal Looms
Despite his mixed record since arriving from Benfica in 2022 for an initial £64 million ($85.8 million), Núñez reminded fans and club executives alike of the explosive form that prompted Liverpool to invest up to £85 million ($114 million) in him. His 40 goals in 143 appearances have drawn criticism, but this showing could mark the start of a resurgence.
Liverpool are still reportedly awaiting formal offers for Núñez, with Saudi Pro League interest ongoing. Napoli, previously linked, have reportedly pulled back due to the Reds’ high valuation.
Should Núñez carry this form into the competitive season, Liverpool might have a No. 9 dilemma on their hands—one the club may welcome as they prepare for a grueling campaign.
