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During a win over Argentina in 2023, Uruguay's coach Marcelo Bielsa lashed out at Darwin Nunez leaving him in tears.
Luis Suarez has opened up about a difficult moment for Darwin Nunez while playing under Uruguay manager Marcelo Bielsa, revealing that the Liverpool striker was left in tears following harsh criticism from the coach.
According to ESPN, Suarez recounted how he witnessed Nunez’s emotional distress during a half-time break in a match against Argentina last year, highlighting the pressure young players face in high-stakes situations.
Suarez, who recently announced his retirement from international duty, has been a mentor to Nunez throughout his burgeoning career.
Having played alongside him in 13 international matches, Suarez has often served as a source of support and guidance.
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However, he expressed concern over Bielsa’s management style, suggesting it has created a challenging atmosphere for the players.
Reflecting on the incident, Suarez stated, “I saw Darwin crying, and I told him: You are here because of your own merit, because of how hard you work. You are a goalscorer, and you are the best.” He encouraged Nunez to push through the negativity, emphasizing the importance of self-belief.
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The match in question saw Nunez score in the second half, a pivotal moment that brought him and Suarez together in celebration.
Despite his emotional struggles, Nunez managed to find his footing, a testament to his resilience. “When he scored, I was the first one he greeted. Darwin needs affection and support, not harsh criticism,” Suarez added.
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Suarez also recounted a conversation with Bielsa in which the coach defended his approach, stating, “Do you know what happens if I don’t talk to him like that? You saw what he ran in the second half.”
While Bielsa’s methods may have yielded results, Suarez remains protective of Nunez, advocating for a nurturing environment to foster his development.
Darwin Nunez prepares to represent Uruguay in upcoming fixtures and he will be aiming to adapt to new challenges under both Bielsa’s management and Liverpool’s Arne Slot.
Despite the pressures, Suarez’s support continues to be a guiding light for the young forward as he navigates his career.
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