Darwin Nunez has been ruthlessly cut from Al‑Hilal’s Roshn League squad with Simone Inzaghi now explaining the decision.
Darwin Nunez has been ruthlessly cut from Al‑Hilal’s Roshn League squad.
In the days leading up to Al‑Hilal’s clash with Al‑Wahada, confirmation emerged that Nunez had been removed from the Saudi Pro League and domestic cup roster following the high‑profile arrival of Karim Benzema from Al‑Ittihad.
Saudi clubs are only allowed to register eight foreign players born before 2003 in their 25‑man squads, and Simone Inzaghi chose to sacrifice the former Liverpool striker – along with defender Pablo Mari – to make room for the Ballon d’Or winner.
The decision effectively confines Nunez to continental duty for the remainder of the campaign, with reports suggesting Al‑Hilal now expect to move him on at the end of the 2025/26 season despite an outlay of more than £40m to sign him from Liverpool last summer. Before being axed, the Uruguayan had produced six goals and four assists in 16 league appearances – respectable numbers, but not enough to save his spot.
Now Al-Hilal manager Simone Inzaghi has explained that it was a difficult decision but that he was under time constraints to make his choice:
“The decision was difficult, but that’s the job of a coach. He makes many decisions every day, even in every training session,” Inzaghi said of the omissions. “Nunez and Pablo are good players. I want them in all competitions, but we know the restrictions on registering foreign players. Time was of the essence, and I made the difficult decision. I calmly informed the excluded players of my decision.”
If Nunez felt humiliated by the call, his response against Al‑Wahada on Monday night suggested he is channelling that frustration in the most productive way possible. Leading the line in the AFC Champions League, the 26‑year‑old struck twice in a 2‑1 victory, keeping Al‑Hilal unbeaten in the competition.
However, it was the 26-year-old’s action to his second goal that really set social media alight. Instead of reeling away in celebration, the striker wheeled away, slowed to a walk and fixed his gaze on the section of the stadium where Al‑Hilal’s ownership and senior hierarchy were seated.
He held the stare for several seconds before finally turning back towards his team‑mates, barely cracking a smile as he accepted their congratulations.
Now 26 years of age and a World Cup approaching, this is hardly an ideal situation for Nunez. It’s been sad to see the ex-Liverpool No.9 not truly find a home to be at, and hopefully his situation in Riyadh can be sorted out soon.
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