Darwin Nunez’s Journey: From Liverpool to Al Hilal
In a significant move, Darwin Nunez was sold by Liverpool to Al Hilal for a reported fee of $61.6 million (£46 million). This transfer marks a pivotal moment in Nunez’s career, especially after a disappointing last season at Liverpool where he scored only three goals in 47 appearances.
On February 16, 2026, Nunez made a notable impact in his new team, scoring both goals in a 2-1 victory for Al Hilal in the AFC Champions League. However, his time at Al Hilal has not been without challenges. He has been left out of Al Hilal’s league squad due to foreign player registration rules, raising questions about his future at the club.
As of now, Nunez’s last appearance for Al Hilal was on February 16, and he is set to play for Uruguay against England on March 27, 2026. This upcoming match will be crucial for Nunez as he seeks to maintain his international career amidst uncertainties at the club level.
Nunez expressed his feelings about his time at Liverpool, stating, “The truth is they made me feel really welcome and my family too. I went through a difficult time personally, but the fans always gave me support and affection, and that for me was very important. And obviously being back here, I do miss them.” This sentiment highlights the emotional connection he has with Liverpool supporters.
Despite the challenges, Nunez reportedly earns nearly £400,000 per week at Al Hilal, which reflects the financial allure of his new contract. However, the arrival of star player Karim Benzema has added to the competition for places in the squad, leaving Nunez’s future at Al Hilal uncertain.
The decision to transfer was not easy for Nunez, as noted by coach Simone Inzaghi, who remarked, “The decision was difficult, but that’s the job of a coach. He makes many decisions every day, even in every training session.” This underscores the complexities involved in player management and transfers.
As the situation develops, details remain unconfirmed regarding Nunez’s role at Al Hilal and how it may affect his international career. The impact of his limited playing time on future transfers is also unclear, making this a critical period for the Uruguayan forward.