Darwin Nunez has suffered a significant setback at Al-Hilal after being excluded from the club’s Saudi Pro League squad list following the arrival of Karim Benzema.
The Uruguayan forward, who joined the Saudi giants with high expectations, now finds himself paying the price for strict foreign player regulations — with Benzema’s registration forcing a difficult reshuffle behind the scenes.
Foreign Player Rule Forces Sacrifice
Saudi Pro League regulations permit only eight foreign players born before 2003 to be registered in a 25-man domestic squad.
With Benzema occupying one of those valuable slots after his move from , Al-Hilal were left with no room to accommodate Nunez for league competition.
The consequence? Nunez will only be eligible for continental fixtures in the AFC Champions League for now, while missing out on domestic league action unless circumstances shift.
Inzaghi Breaks His Silence
Head coach admitted the decision was far from easy.
He explained that squad limitations left him with little flexibility, stressing that both Nunez and Pablo remain strong professionals. According to the manager, the situation was handled respectfully, with clear communication delivered directly to the affected players.
Still, in football, respect doesn’t guarantee minutes on the pitch.
The Numbers Paint a Conflicted Picture
Nunez’s 2025/26 Saudi Pro League campaign tells a mixed story:
- 16 appearances
- 6 goals
- 4 assists
- 11.48 expected goals (xG)
- 14 big chances missed
On paper, the output looks respectable. But the missed opportunities continue to raise familiar questions about his finishing consistency — an issue that followed him during his spell at .
He often divides opinion: explosive movement, relentless energy, but moments of frustration in front of goal. Chaos can unsettle defenders — but without ruthless precision, chaos alone isn’t enough.
From Premier League Winner to League Omission
Nunez departed Liverpool as a Premier League champion, scoring 40 goals in 143 appearances. His Saudi move was expected to be a fresh start.
Yet just days ago, reports were already linking him with a potential switch to — a sign that uncertainty may already be surrounding his future.
Now, with Benzema preferred and squad limitations tightening the squeeze, Nunez faces a defining moment in his career.
For a striker who thrives on rhythm and confidence, watching from the sidelines could prove the toughest challenge yet.
The next move may define everything.
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