Núñez shines and Anfield reacts – 5 key takeaways from Liverpool 3-0 Bournemouth.

Liverpool shifted into high gear, securing a 3-0 victory over Bournemouth in the first half as their attacking players hit their stride and the midfield functioned effectively.

Liverpool 3-0 Bournemouth

Luis Diaz is the standout performer so far

Diaz netted eight goals in the Premier League last season, his highest tally since joining the club in January 2022. This season, he is already just three goals shy of that mark, having scored his fourth and fifth with two impressive finishes against Bournemouth.

This brace also means he has five goals in his last four matches, following a pair against Man United and an earlier goal against Brentford in the season’s first home game.

He nearly added to his tally when he hit the post in the first half against Nottingham Forest, which might have altered the game’s outcome. Liverpool boasts a robust attacking lineup this season, and so far, Diaz has emerged as the star.

Anfield reacted with energy

During the loss to Forest, the team failed to provide Anfield with anything to rally behind. It wasn’t just the defeat but the lackluster performance that left the crowd without motivation. In contrast, the match against Bournemouth saw the team’s determination off the ball energize the fans.

The names of Andy Robertson, Ibrahima Konate, and Darwin Nunez echoed through the stands early in the game, primarily for their defensive contributions rather than attacking play. This highlights that it’s not only the dynamic offensive moves—of which there were many—that engage the crowd.

Anfield was vibrant on a warm September afternoon, and this time, the atmosphere matched the occasion. While it may not have reached the intensity of a European night, for a 3 PM Saturday kickoff, it was quite lively as the team and supporters united.

Nunez made a strong impression in his first start under Arne Slot

Stepping in for Diogo Jota. He showcased his usual dynamism, effectively leading the line and pressing opposing players in defense.

Chants of “Nunez, Nunez” filled Anfield whenever the Uruguayan was involved, whether on or off the ball—often blending both in the same play.

On one notable occasion, he surged onto a pass from Mohamed Salah, who was positioned for a return pass, while Diaz, in pursuit of a hat-trick, made his own run. Everyone anticipated Nunez’s next move, but he opted to find the far corner instead, scoring Liverpool’s third goal and sealing the game.

Although he had a few misplaced passes in promising positions as the match progressed, he demonstrated sharpness and a readiness to contribute under his new manager.

A dynamic midfield has discovered its rhythm.

The midfield dynamic has emerged as one of the most intriguing aspects of the Slot era thus far.

At times during the match, Ryan Gravenberch operated as the sole holding player when Liverpool advanced up the pitch, creating a formation resembling *4-1-4-1*.

In deeper buildup phases, a box of four formed, with the striker dropping back to support Dominic Szoboszlai in an attacking midfield role, while Alexis Mac Allister and Gravenberch held a position in front of the defense.

This might be part of the tactical approach that Darwin Núñez needed to adapt to.

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s ability to drop into midfield was evident as the right-back advanced centrally to assist in Díaz’s second goal.

There were impressive interactions among the three designated midfielders; while Szoboszlai may not heavily impact player ratings in this match, his linkup play contributed significantly to the effective midfield performance, especially in the first half.

Slot’s rotation choices will be eager to seize their opportunities.

Every player on Liverpool’s bench will be eager for the opportunity to start against West Ham in the Carabao Cup midweek.

They will want to be part of the positive momentum established during the Slot era.

Aside from the defeat against Forest, which can now be seen as a minor setback—a lesson learned—this Liverpool side has been one of the strongest in the early stages of the season.

Players like Jarell Quansah will be eager to prove themselves after being substituted at half-time in the opening match.

Joe Gomez and Curtis Jones share a similar mindset, both wanting to demonstrate their value, while Cody Gakpo aims to build on his solid performance in Milan.

Additionally, there is excitement surrounding new signing Federico Chiesa, who is yet to make his first start.

He could potentially feature against West Ham after an impressive cameo in his debut at Anfield, taking a shot with his first touch of the ball.