The curious case of Darwin Núñez continues to intrigue, as the prodigious striker, once Liverpool's record signing, appears content with his lucrative adventure in the Saudi Pro League, spurning a return to Europe's top flight.
Key Highlights
- Big-money Liverpool move: Nunez joined Liverpool after scoring 34 goals for Benfica during the 2021-22 season, in a deal potentially worth £85 million.
- Al-Hilal setback: His place in the squad was affected after the Saudi club signed Karim Benzema and reached its foreign-player registration limit.
- A fresh start on loan: Nunez moved to Al-Diriyah, where he has continued scoring and regained an important role with Uruguay under Diego Forlan.
- No immediate European return: Gus Poyet believes Nunez is comfortable in Saudi Arabia and may stay unless family considerations prompt a change.
Nunez Arrived at Liverpool With High Expectations
Darwin Nunez built his reputation through productive spells with Almeria in Spain and Benfica in Portugal. His breakthrough came during the 2021-22 season, when he scored an impressive 34 goals, attracting interest from several leading European clubs.
Liverpool eventually secured his signature in a major transfer, with the overall package potentially reaching £85 million ($114 million). Expectations were high, but the Uruguayan striker struggled to deliver consistently, failing to score more than 20 goals in any of his three seasons at Anfield.
Although Nunez helped Liverpool win the Premier League, he gradually lost his place in the attacking hierarchy and was no longer a regular starter. His missed chances also attracted criticism, making him a frequent target for fans and critics despite his physical qualities and attacking potential.
Benzema’s Arrival Complicated Nunez’s Al-Hilal Spell
With Liverpool moving in a different direction, Nunez accepted a lucrative offer to continue his career in Saudi Arabia in the summer of 2025, joining Al-Hilal.
However, his new chapter took an unexpected turn when the club signed Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema a few months later. Al-Hilal had reached its limit for registering foreign players, leaving Nunez unable to be included in the squad.
Rather than abandon his Saudi Pro League career, the striker subsequently joined Al-Diriyah on loan. He has found scoring opportunities there while also becoming an important part of Uruguay’s plans under head coach Diego Forlan.
Why Nunez Is Not Rushing Back to Europe
A return to English football had previously been discussed, but Nunez appears content with his current situation in Saudi Arabia. Former Chelsea midfielder Gus Poyet, speaking to GOAL in association with Gambling.com, suggested the striker is likely to remain in the region for the foreseeable future.
Poyet explained that Nunez initially made the move to Saudi Arabia for a lucrative contract and then faced an unexpected setback when Benzema arrived at Al-Hilal. His subsequent loan move has given him another opportunity to play regularly while maintaining his existing contractual arrangements.
The former midfielder believes family considerations could eventually influence Nunez’s decision, particularly as children grow older and educational needs become more important. However, he sees little indication that the striker is eager to leave at present.
Poyet also pointed to Nunez’s renewed confidence with Uruguay. Forlan’s decision to restore him to the No. 9 shirt has helped reinforce his status within the national team.
“He probably won't change soon,” Poyet said, suggesting that Nunez’s current club situation and international role make a return to Europe less likely in the near term.
Poyet added that the 27-year-old performs best when he feels trusted and confident in his role as the team’s main striker.
What Lies Ahead for Nunez’s Career?
Confidence has been a recurring issue throughout Nunez’s time at Liverpool. While his pace, strength and ability to trouble defenders were clear, questions remained over whether he could become a consistent goalscorer at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
His recent performances suggest that his attacking instincts remain intact, particularly when he receives regular opportunities and the backing of his coaches. A future return to European football remains possible, with clubs across the continent continually searching for proven centre-forwards. Nunez could attract renewed interest if he maintains his form and demonstrates greater consistency in front of goal.
For now, however, the Uruguayan appears in no hurry to end his Saudi Arabian adventure. With a fresh playing opportunity at Al-Diriyah and a prominent role for his national team, he has reasons to continue rebuilding his confidence before considering his next move.
