Darwin Nunez Axed by Al Hilal: Premier League Return?
In a stunning twist to the January transfer window rumors, former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez has reportedly been dropped from Al Hilal's squad, sparking speculation about a potential return to the Premier League. The Uruguayan forward's move to Saudi Arabia last summer was meant to be a lucrative new chapter, but it now appears to be unraveling faster than expected. As per Friday's Paper Talk in the Daily Mail, Nunez's stint has 'taken a turn for the worse' following the high-profile arrival of Karim Benzema.
Nunez's Saudi Nightmare Unfolds
Darwin Nunez joined Al Hilal from Liverpool in a deal that shocked the football world, trading the intensity of Anfield for the opulent Saudi Pro League. The 25-year-old, known for his raw pace and goal-scoring prowess, was expected to thrive alongside stars like Neymar and now Benzema. However, reports suggest internal squad dynamics and competition for places have left Nunez on the fringes.
The Daily Mail highlights that Benzema's integration into the team has directly impacted Nunez, leading to his exclusion from matchday squads. This axing comes amid Al Hilal's dominant campaign in the Saudi league, where they sit atop the table. For Nunez, who netted 15 goals in 42 appearances during his Liverpool tenure, this is a far cry from the glory he sought. Sources close to the club indicate frustration over limited playing time, with the forward reportedly seeking an exit as early as the winter window.
Background on Nunez's Liverpool Legacy
To understand the magnitude of this development, it's essential to revisit Nunez's journey at Liverpool. Signed from Benfica in 2022 for a club-record £85 million, the striker arrived with immense hype. His debut season was a rollercoaster: explosive moments like his hat-trick against Norwich contrasted with glaring misses that drew memes and criticism. Under Jurgen Klopp, Nunez contributed to Liverpool's third-place finish in 2022/23, but inconsistencies persisted.
The following campaign saw him improve, scoring crucial goals in the Carabao Cup triumph and Champions League runs. Yet, with Diogo Jota and Mohamed Salah's form, Nunez often found himself as a rotational option. His departure to Al Hilal was framed as a fresh start, offering a staggering salary boost and a starring role in a burgeoning league. But adaptation issues, including language barriers and tactical mismatches, have plagued his time in Riyadh.
Premier League Clubs Circling?
As news of Nunez's squad omission spreads, Premier League insiders are buzzing with possibilities. Could a return to English football be on the cards? Clubs like Newcastle United, West Ham, and even a sentimental Liverpool homecoming have been whispered in transfer corridors. Nunez's physicality and finishing – when on form – make him an attractive prospect for teams needing attacking firepower.
Arne Slot, Liverpool's current manager, has spoken fondly of Nunez in the past, suggesting the door isn't fully closed. Meanwhile, the Saudi Pro League's reputation for short-term deals means Nunez could be available on loan or a permanent transfer before the window shuts. Analysts point to his Premier League experience as a key asset; unlike some Saudi imports, Nunez knows the league's demands intimately.
Impact of Benzema's Arrival
Karim Benzema's move to Al Hilal was the blockbuster signing of the Saudi summer, bringing Real Madrid's Ballon d'Or winner to the fold. At 36, Benzema has seamlessly slotted in, scoring on debut and forming a lethal partnership with the squad's existing talent. This has naturally squeezed out peripherals like Nunez, whose role as a deputy striker no longer fits the team's vision under manager Jorge Jesus.
Football pundits on Sky Sports have debated whether this is a tactical masterstroke or a hasty decision. Nunez's work rate and versatility could still be assets, but Al Hilal's ambition to dominate Asia prioritizes proven winners like Benzema. For Nunez, it's a harsh lesson in the cutthroat world of elite football transfers.
Broader Transfer Landscape and Nunez's Options
This story emerges amid a flurry of Premier League transfer activity. Raheem Sterling's loan to Feyenoord highlights players seeking regular minutes over prestige, a path Nunez might follow. Meanwhile, Sir Jim Ratcliffe's comments at Manchester United have stirred controversy, underscoring the off-field pressures in English football.
Looking ahead, Nunez's representatives are reportedly fielding inquiries from Europe and beyond. A return to Benfica or a Serie A move to Atalanta have surfaced as alternatives, but the Premier League's allure – with its global spotlight and competitive edge – remains strong. At 25, Nunez has time on his side, but he must resolve this impasse quickly to salvage his season.
What Fans and Experts Are Saying
Social media is ablaze with reactions. Liverpool fans, still fond of Nunez's chaotic energy, are pleading for a recall, while neutrals see this as Saudi football's growing pains. Sky Sports' Transfer Centre has dedicated segments to the saga, with experts like Guillem Balague predicting a mid-season move. "Nunez's Premier League pedigree could see him thrive again," Balague noted.
In the context of the Saudi Pro League's investment drive, Nunez's exit would signal that even big-money moves aren't foolproof. As the window heats up, all eyes are on whether this axing propels him back to the Premier League's bright lights or into another uncharted territory.
This development adds another layer to the evolving narrative of global football migration. For now, Darwin Nunez waits in the wings, his next chapter hanging in the balance.
