Didi Hamann: ‘Darwin Nunez Would Be Gold for Arsenal’

Former Liverpool midfielder Didi Hamann has made a bold claim that Darwin Nunez would be the ideal striker for Arsenal. With Mikel Arteta’s side struggling to find a dominant presence up front, Hamann believes that the Uruguayan forward could have transformed their attacking play and given them a serious boost in their title challenge.

Speaking on the issue, Hamann pointed out Arsenal’s lack of a physical, imposing forward who can bully defenders and stretch opposition defenses. “I think the team is well-equipped, but the lack of a centre-forward is obviously what I think harms their chances,” he said. “A player like Darwin Nunez would be gold for Arsenal. He’s someone who can draw two or three defenders, create space for others, and provide that physicality and pace that changes the game.”

Hamann’s comments come at a time when Arsenal is grappling with injury concerns and inconsistencies in attack. While Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah have had bright moments, neither has provided the kind of physical presence that Arteta’s side might need to challenge Manchester City and Liverpool for the title.

Arsenal has relied heavily on Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Martin Ødegaard for creativity and goal-scoring. However, Hamann believes that Nunez’s ability to stretch defenses would make life significantly easier for those players. “Arsenal always finds space, but when you have a quick, strong forward up top, it becomes even easier for players like Saka and Martinelli. They just haven’t got that right now.”

The former German international also highlighted how Liverpool has managed to make the most of Nunez’s strengths despite his inconsistency in front of goal. “He may not be the most clinical striker, but he occupies defenders like few others in the Premier League. His sheer presence on the pitch forces teams to adjust their defensive setup, which creates opportunities for the attacking midfielders and wingers.”

Arsenal’s transfer strategy in recent years has leaned towards acquiring versatile forwards rather than traditional No. 9s. The addition of Kai Havertz last summer was meant to provide a different attacking dimension, but Hamann believes that Arsenal still lacks a true centre-forward who can win physical battles in the box.

The conversation about Arsenal’s attacking options has been ongoing since the departure of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette. While Jesus brought flair and technical ability, he hasn’t always delivered the goals expected from a leading striker. Nketiah, meanwhile, has had strong performances but remains inconsistent against top-tier opposition.

Hamann further emphasized that a player like Nunez would not just be a short-term solution but also a long-term asset. “He’s young, he’s quick, and he’s strong. If Arsenal were to sign a player like him, they wouldn’t just be fixing a short-term problem. They’d be adding someone who could lead the line for years to come.”

However, Hamann acknowledged that the idea of Nunez joining Arsenal is nothing more than a hypothetical situation. “It’s too late for such a move to happen, but it’s one that Arsenal may look back on and wish they had considered.”

With the Premier League season heading into its final stages, Arsenal finds itself locked in a fierce battle for the title. They have proven to be a resilient team, but Hamann insists that their lack of a dominant centre-forward could be the difference between finishing first or second.

Meanwhile, Liverpool remains one of the favorites for the title, and Nunez continues to play a crucial role in their setup. The Uruguayan forward may still have doubters, but his impact on the pitch is undeniable. His movement, work rate, and ability to create chaos in opposition defenses make him a valuable asset for Jurgen Klopp’s team.

Arsenal fans might be left wondering what could have been if Nunez had been part of their squad. While Arteta has built a well-balanced team, the addition of a player with Nunez’s physicality could have given them a significant edge.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Arsenal may revisit the idea of signing a powerful, pacey forward to complete their attacking setup. Whether it’s Nunez or another striker with similar attributes, Hamann’s comments highlight the missing piece in Arteta’s puzzle.

Until then, Arsenal will have to make do with their current options and hope that their dynamic attack can overcome any shortcomings in the No. 9 position. But as the title race intensifies, one thing is clear—having a player like Darwin Nunez would have made Arsenal’s journey a whole lot easier.