Nunez Future in Doubt as Al-Hilal Reshuffle Clears Path for Benzema
Darwin Nunez’s post-Liverpool chapter has taken another unexpected turn, with Al-Hilal making a decisive squad call that raises fresh questions about his long-term prospects in Saudi Arabia. According to reports first carried by Saudi outlet Al-Youm and relayed by YS Scores, Al-Hilal have removed Nunez from their domestic league roster, although he remains eligible for AFC Champions League competition.
The development marks a significant moment in Nunez’s time at Al-Hilal and underscores how quickly circumstances can shift at clubs operating with both financial muscle and short-term expectations.
Al-Hilal Remove Nunez from Domestic Plans
Nunez joined Al-Hilal last summer following his departure from Liverpool, in a move that was always viewed as a reset for the Uruguay international. While a sale had appeared increasingly likely at Anfield, few anticipated how rapidly the narrative would change abroad.
Statistically, his record has not been disastrous. Nunez has started 14 of Al-Hilal’s 20 league matches and scored six goals — a respectable return in a competitive environment. Yet football decisions are rarely made on numbers alone.
Removal from the local league squad is a clear signal. Clubs in the Saudi Pro League are restricted in their foreign player allocations, and adjustments of this nature typically reflect strategic shifts rather than temporary form concerns. Though he can still feature in continental competition, exclusion from domestic plans suggests Al-Hilal are prioritising alternative attacking options.
For Nunez, it is a setback that places his immediate future under scrutiny.
Benzema Arrival Alters Attacking Hierarchy
Central to this reshuffle is the arrival of Karim Benzema. The former Real Madrid striker’s switch from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal in January has reshaped the attacking pecking order overnight.
Benzema arrives not as a squad player, but as a marquee centrepiece. His pedigree, leadership profile and goal record make him an automatic focal point in any system. Al-Hilal’s recruitment strategy has consistently revolved around elite, proven figures — and Benzema fits that model precisely.
In practical terms, this creates direct competition for central attacking roles. With squad limits in play, difficult decisions were inevitable. Nunez appears to have become a casualty of that recalibration.
The optics are clear: Benzema’s arrival strengthens Al-Hilal commercially and competitively, but it narrows pathways for others. In environments where immediate impact is demanded, reputational hierarchy often influences selection.
Nunez Response and January Interest
It is understood that Nunez attracted interest during the January window, particularly from Turkish clubs exploring a European return. At that stage, he opted for continuity at Al-Hilal, reportedly valuing stability.
That calculation now looks precarious.
Frustration had already surfaced publicly, with reports indicating Nunez was unsettled by aspects of his role despite regular starts. Removal from the domestic roster is unlikely to ease that tension.
From a broader career perspective, Nunez remains 26 and in his athletic prime. His profile — pace, direct running and aggressive pressing — retains appeal in multiple markets. European clubs monitoring developments may view this situation as an opportunity rather than a red flag.
Whether Al-Hilal seek a permanent exit or loan arrangement in the summer could depend on continental performances and squad flexibility.
Liverpool Legacy and Next Steps
At Liverpool, Nunez was often polarising yet undeniably influential. His rawness was balanced by relentless energy, unpredictability and a knack for decisive moments. While consistency fluctuated, his commitment rarely did.
Life after Anfield has not delivered the smooth upward trajectory many envisaged. Yet removal from a domestic squad does not equate to decline. Instead, it reflects the volatility of elite football ecosystems shaped by ambition and star power.
Al-Hilal’s decision, first reported by Rousing The Kop citing Al-Youm, may prove a turning point. Benzema’s prominence is secure, but Nunez’s story remains unfinished.
The coming months will determine whether he re-establishes himself within Al-Hilal’s continental ambitions or re-enters the European market. What is certain is that, at 26, his peak years remain ahead. Clubs willing to invest in refinement rather than reputation could yet unlock his full potential.
