Darwin Núñez, who scored 15 goals in his first Liverpool season, will want to improve in the Europa League following a strong showing.

The Europa League draw on Friday afternoon was perfect for Liverpool, as travel concerns were put to rest.

The Reds will stay in Austria for the tournament group stage, a location Jürgen Klopp visited for a pre-season training camp. That will aid a team trying to return to the Champions League.

Liverpool is the apparent leader for European success at this time, reinforced by the deadline day signing of Netherlands international Ryan Gravenberch.

Klopp’s team, including the Dutch midfielder, has the opportunity to excel in the tournament, especially Darwin Núñez.

Núñez’s impressive performance at St. James’ Park last week has eased doubts about his fit in Klopp’s side. During counter-attacks and against high-line opponents, Núñez excels at taking advantage.

The Uruguayan is certain to win the Golden Boot against LASK, Toulouse, and Union SG, who aren’t used to park-the-bus systems. But more significantly, he will gain confidence in front of goal.

Although not as efficient as Cody Gakpo in the false nine role, Núñez may be as crucial to Manchester City as Erling Haaland when played in his finest position. As he did for Benfica, scoring a couple goals in Europe will boost his confidence.

Four midfield recruits this season have also rekindled rivalry for supporting roles behind the attacking line. Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliott, who have excelled lately, may be given prominent parts in Europe, where they have a strong record.

Jones’ Champions League efforts against Porto and Leipzig are well-known, while Elliott was a standout for Liverpool against Ajax last season. That bodes well for a competition where Klopp will rest his starters.

However, Trent Alexander-Arnold may require extra rest. Liverpool has no real backup for him, which might lead Klopp to consider using the 4-3-3 style in Europe. Jarell Quansah’s 17-minute cameo against Newcastle allows Liverpool’s vice-captain to play centrally while Joe Gomez returns to right-back, making the Premier League fresher.

With Núñez leading the Europa League championship chase, Klopp is the strongest manager in the competition. Liverpool may be muttering it gently, but their eyes may already be gazing forward to May 22 in Dublin, with plenty of positives to be garnered along the road.