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John Arne Riise admitted that when he joined Liverpool, he didn’t fully grasp the club’s size and expectations. He recalled how, during his playing days, criticism mainly came from newspapers, which players could easily ignore. Without social media, scrutiny was less intense, allowing players to focus more on their performances.

However, he pointed out that today’s footballers don’t have that luxury. “Whenever you open your phone, there will be something there that has an opinion on you,” Riise said, emphasizing the overwhelming nature of modern social media. Every mistake or underwhelming performance is magnified instantly, making it harder for players to block out negativity.

This constant pressure has made it significantly tougher for players at elite clubs. Many struggle with the weight of expectations, especially when fans and pundits demand immediate success. Unlike in the past, players now deal with criticism 24/7, which can affect their confidence and mental well-being.

Riise believes that this added pressure contributes to some players failing to live up to their potential. Not everyone can handle the intense scrutiny, and those who can’t often find themselves out of the team or even out of the club.

Competition and Ruthless Recruitment

At the biggest clubs, no player’s position is truly secure, and Riise emphasized this reality. If someone isn’t performing, clubs have the financial power to replace them immediately, making the competition for places incredibly tough.

He explained that many players assume they’ve “made it” when they sign for clubs like Real Madrid or Barcelona. However, he believes that’s when the real work begins. These clubs expect consistent excellence, and failing to meet those standards can lead to a quick exit.

Riise highlighted that even the most talented players can struggle under these conditions. A single bad season or a run of poor performances can see them sidelined or sold. The pressure to deliver every week is relentless, which is why only the strongest survive.

This ruthless nature of elite football means that even established stars must constantly prove themselves. For younger players or newcomers, the challenge is even greater, as they must adapt quickly or risk being replaced.

Nunez and the Burden of Expectations

While Riise didn’t single out Darwin Nunez, his comments reflect the challenges faced by high-profile players. He noted that some footballers struggle with the weight of expectations, and this can impact their performances on the pitch.

He emphasized that fans often don’t realize how mentally tough it is to play for the biggest clubs. The demand for excellence, combined with intense competition, can make or break a player’s career at the top level.

Nunez, like many others, faces constant scrutiny from fans and pundits. Every missed chance or poor game is analyzed in detail, making it difficult to build confidence. Even talented players can falter if they can’t handle this level of pressure.

Riise believes that success at elite clubs isn’t just about ability—it’s about mentality. Those who thrive are the ones who can handle the criticism, push through difficult moments, and perform at their best regardless of external noise.