Liverpool Fans Notice Darwin Núñez Didn’t Applaud Jürgen Klopp During Farewell Ceremony
Observant Liverpool supporters spotted that Darwin Núñez was the only player who didn’t applaud Jürgen Klopp during his guard of honor at Anfield. The legendary German manager bid farewell to the club after securing a 2-0 victory over Wolves on the final day of the 2023-24 Premier League season.
It was an emotional day in Merseyside as Liverpool said goodbye to their most successful manager in three decades. Klopp remains the only coach to have led the club to a Premier League title since its inception in 1992. Now, with Arne Slot poised to potentially deliver Liverpool’s record-equalling 20th league title, Klopp’s legacy is firmly cemented. His achievements include securing a sixth European Cup for the club, solidifying his place among Liverpool’s greatest-ever managers.
Many players were visibly emotional, including captain Virgil van Dijk, who broke down in tears as he embraced Klopp one last time. Trent Alexander-Arnold also struggled to hold back tears as the squad joined supporters in singing ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ for the final time that season. However, not every player appeared to be equally moved by the occasion.
Núñez’s Absence from Applause Raises Questions
Brought on as a second-half substitute in Klopp’s final match, Núñez shared a brief embrace with his manager before stepping onto the pitch. The Uruguayan striker had faced heavy criticism in the closing weeks of the season due to inconsistent finishing and had lost his place in the starting XI to Cody Gakpo.
After the match, footage from Klopp’s farewell ceremony showed every Liverpool player applauding—except Núñez. This sparked debate online, with some perceiving it as a sign of disrespect toward one of the greatest Premier League managers in history.
Núñez had already frustrated some fans earlier in the month with his social media activity, which raised questions about his future at the club. Ironically, Klopp was reportedly one of Núñez’s biggest supporters, having pushed for his signing in 2022 despite doubts from others within the club.
Núñez’s Reaction to Klopp’s Final Speech
After addressing the fans, Klopp gave a final speech in the dressing room, delivering an emotional farewell to his squad. Cameras captured the moment, and once again, Núñez’s demeanor stood out. Sitting with his hands on his head, he appeared disengaged and showed little reaction to Klopp’s words. When the speech ended, he also refrained from joining his teammates in applauding their departing manager.
It remains unclear whether Núñez’s reaction reflected personal disappointment, frustration, or simply sadness over Klopp’s exit. However, his behavior did not go unnoticed.
Speaking later in an interview with El País (via Metro), Núñez shared his thoughts on Klopp’s departure:
“We were all shocked by Klopp leaving; no one expected it. It’s a shame he’s going. I personally would have liked him to leave on a high note, winning trophies, but that didn’t happen. It’s also disappointing for the players. I wish him all the best in the world.”