Tension is rising at Liverpool as Darwin Núñez reportedly confronted manager Arne Slot over limited minutes in recent matches, leaving the striker frustrated and unsettled.

Tension is mounting at Anfield as Darwin Núñez has reportedly confronted new Liverpool manager Arne Slot over his limited involvement in the squad’s recent matches, sparking fresh uncertainty about the striker’s future at the club. The fallout from the incident is already sending shockwaves through Liverpool’s pre-season preparations, as speculation intensifies over a potential move to Napoli.

Núñez’s frustration boiled over just two days after scoring in Liverpool’s 3-1 victory against Preston North End in a pre-season friendly. Though he was on the scoresheet, it did little to ease his growing dissatisfaction. The 25-year-old forward, who was once tipped to be the long-term solution to Liverpool’s post-Firmino era, is reportedly unhappy with his role under Slot, having started only eight Premier League games last season.

The confrontation reportedly occurred at the AXA Training Centre, where Núñez is said to have directly challenged Slot over his benching. The Uruguayan believes he’s being unfairly overlooked in favor of teammates like Cody Gakpo and the now-late Diogo Jota, despite being fully fit and available for selection during key matches last season.

Slot, who replaced Jürgen Klopp at the helm this summer, is said to have responded firmly, questioning Núñez’s consistency, tactical awareness, and pressing work rate. Sources say Slot referenced several past performances — notably against Wolves and Aston Villa — as examples of why he’s been hesitant to rely on Núñez in high-pressure games.

This internal conflict comes at a delicate moment for Liverpool, who are still reeling emotionally from the tragic death of Diogo Jota. The tribute match against Preston was meant to offer healing, but instead, it seems to have exposed deeper cracks within the squad. While Núñez honored Jota with his goal celebration, his personal frustration could not be masked.

Napoli have emerged as the frontrunners to sign Núñez, viewing him as an ideal replacement for Victor Osimhen, who is reportedly closing in on a move to Galatasaray. The Serie A champions have already submitted an offer of around €55 million (£47.5 million) with potential add-ons. Liverpool, however, have rejected the bid, standing firm on their valuation of between €60 million and €70 million.

As reported by Sky Sports Italy, Napoli are now weighing their options and have shifted some attention toward Udinese striker Lorenzo Lucca, who could be acquired for a more affordable €34 million. Still, sources suggest that Núñez remains their primary target, should a compromise with Liverpool be found.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed on July 14 that Núñez has already given the “green light” to Napoli and is growing impatient. “He continues to wait for Napoli,” Romano wrote, “but he can’t wait forever.” The striker reportedly prefers a move within Europe over a switch to the Saudi Pro League, where clubs like Al-Hilal are monitoring his situation.

The fallout has also reached Liverpool fans, who are now divided over Núñez’s role and future. Some supporters argue that Slot should give him more minutes, especially in light of the club’s attacking depth being tested. Others believe the club should cash in now, citing Slot’s apparent lack of faith and the availability of other forwards on the market.

Adding to the tension is Liverpool’s stalled recruitment activity. Moves for potential replacements like Newcastle’s Alexander Isak and PSG-linked Hugo Ekitike are progressing slowly. If Núñez does depart, Liverpool will need to act swiftly to secure a suitable replacement ahead of the new season.

The timing of this turmoil couldn’t be worse. Liverpool are scheduled to depart for their Asian pre-season tour next week, followed by the Community Shield clash against Crystal Palace on August 10. Slot had hoped for a quiet buildup to his debut campaign, but now faces a major decision on whether to reconcile with Núñez or accelerate his departure.

Sources close to the squad suggest that the locker room atmosphere has been strained ever since Slot’s arrival, as several players are still adjusting to his more rigid tactical approach compared to Klopp’s. Núñez’s situation may just be the first public indication of broader discontent behind the scenes.

Núñez’s potential exit would mark a significant turning point in Liverpool’s evolving post-Klopp era. Once seen as a marquee signing, his time at Anfield has been marred by inconsistency and misfiring spells, but many still believe his raw talent could flourish under the right conditions.

Liverpool now face a crossroads: either back Slot’s vision and part ways with a high-profile signing, or attempt to heal the rift and reintegrate Núñez into the squad. Either route will carry consequences for team chemistry and the club’s long-term plans.

If the tension continues to escalate, it’s likely that Liverpool will be forced to make a decision before the end of the transfer window. Until then, all eyes will be on Arne Slot and whether he can manage not just tactics, but egos, expectations, and emotions in a post-Klopp Liverpool.

As the dust settles from the fiery exchange at the training ground, one thing is clear: the Darwin Núñez saga could define the early months of Slot’s reign — for better or worse.