Darwin Nunez 'needs affection' after Liverpool star reduced to TEARS

Luis Suarez has openly criticised Uruguay's manager Marcelo Bielsa, accusing him of creating a negative environment within the squad.

One incident that particularly stands out for Suarez involves Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, whom he says was left in tears after receiving harsh criticism from Bielsa during a half-time break.

The former Liverpool striker, who announced his retirement from the national team last month, was a mentor and role model for Nunez throughout their 13 matches together. After Suarez's retirement, Nunez paid tribute to his "idol" on social media, highlighting the strong bond between the two.

READ MORE: Fabrizio Romano CONFIRMS Liverpool contract offer

Nunez singled out by Bielsa

However, Suarez has now made headlines for his criticism of Bielsa, saying the coach’s methods have left players feeling uncomfortable and "not enjoying" their time with the national team.

In an interview with De fútbol se habla así, as quoted by ESPN, Suarez revealed that he witnessed Nunez crying after being singled out by Bielsa.

The game in question was a win over Argentina last November, where Nunez scored his third goal in as many games, running straight to Suarez in celebration.

“I saw Darwin crying, and I told him, ‘You’re here because of your own merit, because of how hard you work. You’re a goalscorer, and you’re one of the best,’” Suárez explained. "That is why when he scored the goal I was the first one he greeted. For me, Darwin needs affection, to be supported and to feel involved, not other things."

"I ran into the coach in the hallway and he told me 'We are not helping him with those things'. I was taken aback, and I told him that I had to support him.

"After the victory, Bielsa greeted me and said 'Do you know what happens if I don't talk to him like that... You saw what he ran in the second half'. And I told him my part was to encourage him."

Does Darwin need tough love?

Although Nunez has appeared to thrive under Bielsa’s guidance, scoring 10 goals in his last 11 matches, Suarez remains protective of the 25-year-old forward.

Nunez, currently serving a five-match ban from his actions during Copa America, is eligible to play for Uruguay in October after his case was reviewed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

He may still need to serve the remaining three games of his ban, but for now, he is available for the national team. At Liverpool, he will be aiming to continue adapting to the system under new manager Arne Slot.