Darwin Nunez's stint at Al-Hilal has taken a sharp downturn with his exclusion from the Saudi Pro League squad, a decision that confines the Uruguayan to Asian Champions League duties and raises questions over his long-term future in the Middle East. His pointed response—scoring twice against Al-Wahda and staring down the owners—highlights frustrations that could accelerate a move, with financial ripples for former club Liverpool.
Events Leading to the Squad Omission
The development, as reported by The Mirror, stems from Saudi Pro League regulations capping foreign players born before 2003 at eight per squad. Karim Benzema's January arrival from Al-Ittihad forced Al-Hilal boss Simone Inzaghi—who joined from Inter Milan in summer 2025 on a three-year deal—to make tough calls. Nunez, alongside former Arsenal defender Pablo Mari, drew the short straw, despite nine goals in 24 appearances this term.
Inzaghi described the choice as "difficult" but necessary, praising Nunez's quality while noting registration constraints prevented including Marcos Leonardo as a local. The 26-year-old, free of recent injuries after a minor ankle issue in October, had started 14 of 20 league games, blending raw pace with improved hold-up play under Inzaghi's possession-based approach.
Immediate Impact and On-Field Statement
Nunez's reaction was swift and telling. In Al-Hilal's AFC Champions League clash with Al-Wahda, he headed the opener and slotted a 77th-minute winner in a 2-1 victory, his muted celebration escalating to a direct stare at the owners' box. This "brutal reminder," as framed in reports, underscores his value amid a season where he has adapted to a supporting role behind Neymar and Mitrovic, contributing assists alongside goals.
Yet, form inconsistencies persist; his conversion rate hovers below 15 per cent, echoing criticisms from his Liverpool days. With only up to five continental fixtures left, limited minutes could erode his sharpness ahead of Uruguay's World Cup preparations.
Financial Knock-On for Liverpool
Liverpool, under Arne Slot since 2024 on a contract to 2028, sold Nunez last summer for an initial £46.2 million—rising potentially to £56.6 million via add-ons tied to appearances and trophies. His exclusion jeopardises up to £10.4 million in bonuses, a blow amid PSR scrutiny following their 2024-25 title win where Nunez featured sparingly with eight starts.
The Reds amortised his ÂŁ85 million Benfica fee over five years, but early exit clauses mitigated losses. Still, unmet clauses represent lost revenue that could have funded squad tweaks, especially with Slot's side challenging for honours again this term.
Market Response and Tactical Considerations
Speculation of a European return has intensified, with Fenerbahce linked in January—though Nunez opted to stay. Turkish reports suggest renewed interest, valuing his physicality in Jose Mourinho's counter-attacking setup. Betting markets show movement, with odds on a summer move shortening in the Darwin Nunez next club odds, while Al-Hilal retention drifts amid squad harmony concerns.
For potential suitors, Nunez's £200,000 weekly wages pose a hurdle, but his contract to 2028 offers leverage for a cut-price deal if unrest persists. Tactically, clubs like River Plate—his boyhood side—could harness his aerial threat, though Premier League familiarity might tempt mid-table outfits seeking firepower.
Broader Implications for Saudi Moves
This episode echoes Roberto Firmino's Al-Ahli struggles, where foreign limits and adaptation issues led to early exits. For Nunez, it spotlights risks of lucrative Saudi switches mid-career, potentially stalling international ambitions. Al-Hilal, unbeaten domestically and leading by a point, prioritise Benzema's experience for a title push, but at the cost of depth.
Trajectory for the Coming Months
As the window reopens in June, Nunez's AFC performances will dictate suitors. A strong showing could inflate his €35 million valuation, aiding Al-Hilal's recoup. For Liverpool, monitoring add-ons remains key, while Nunez eyes consistent play to reclaim Uruguay's No 9 spot. This saga illustrates football's volatile economics, where squad rules can swiftly alter trajectories.