Darwin Nunez spent three seasons at Anfield and became a cult hero among the Liverpool fans
Darwin Nunez.
Darwin Nunez has gone through a nightmare period since leaving Liverpool(Image: Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
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Darwin Nunez has opened up on his major struggles in Saudi Arabia following his departure from Liverpool, stating he wouldn't wish the "difficult time" on anyone.
The Uruguayan striker arrived at Anfield in 2022 for a then-club record fee of £85million, making 66 goal contributions across 146 appearances for the Reds. After winning the Premier League and two more domestic trophies, Nunez departed for Al-Hilal in a deal worth up to £56.6m.
However, his time in the Saudi Pro League has been extremely tough after being axed from the domestic squad under Simone Inzaghi. After 12 months, Nunez had made just 24 appearances and eventually secured a loan move to Al-Diriyah for the current campaign.
Since making the switch, the 27-year-old has opened up about his struggles at Al-Hilal after being omitted from the team due to Karim Benzema's arrival. He said: "The [last] six months I spent at Al-Hilal were very difficult for me and my family, because I could no longer play matches.
"Honestly, I would never want anyone to go through an experience like mine, because ultimately, all of us footballers want to compete, play, and enjoy doing what we do. I’ve moved past that difficult period now and feel good here.
"I got through that difficult time thanks to my family, who were always there supporting me every step of the way. Every day at work, I tried to go in happy and give my best, even though I couldn't compete, and just try to help the team."
Nunez's words are a rare insight into the potential struggles players face in Saudi Arabia due to squad limitations and arrival of other international players. The striker only got five months of action with Al-Hilal before their signing of Benzema brought his progress to a halt.
Darwin Nunez.
Nunez has struggled heavily in Saudi Arabia(Image: Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
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As a result, Nunez struggled at the World Cup and failed to score for his country as they were eliminated at the group stage of the tournament. Now the 27-year-old is looking ahead to the future with the Saudi Pro League newcomers after scoring a brace in his first game for the club.
Speaking post-match, Nunez said: "Today I’m here, happy to be competing again and to be scoring once more. I would have been happy with one goal, but I’m overjoyed with the two.
"I want to congratulate the team for their effort, especially given the heat, which makes playing a bit tough. Thanks to my family, my wife and children, who were always by my side and didn't let me lose heart during that time.
"It was hard, but I always said that the sun comes out after the storm; today I’m here competing and happy, and that’s what matters to me right now."
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