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Darwin Nunez has hit the ground running for Al-Hilal since completing his $62 million summer transfer from Liverpool, after failing to reach expectations in England.
Nunez was offloaded during a hectic summer transfer window that saw Liverpool receive $355 million for players deemed surplus to requirements. The Nunez sale contributed to a record $600 million spending spree, as Liverpool acquired high-profile signings Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak, and Hugo Ekitike.
Liverpool fans were desperate for Nunez to succeed at the club, and the Uruguay striker penned a heartfelt farewell after discovering that his future would be elsewhere. Liverpool fans have continued to support his journey in Saudi Arabia, despite concerns over the league's future.
Nunez became a fan favorite moments after signing for Liverpool from Benfica. He scored 40 goals in 143 appearances across all competitions.
Unfortunately, the Nunez transfer was a rare blemish on Fenway Sports Group's impressive recruiting record, as almost $105 million was spent on the Benfica star when factoring in add-ons. Still, he was a beloved figure at Liverpool and is now performing well in the Saudi Pro League, which could face major changes.
Worrying Saudi Pro League development
The Saudi Pro League has altered the soccer landscape in recent years, tempting elite talent away from the European divisions with life-changing salaries. Teams can offer inflated contracts, as most organizations are controlled by the Public Investment Fund (PIF).
While the PIF owns 75 percent of the teams, the Ministry of Sport controls the other 25 percent. The heavy investment has helped the league become a household name, but according to Brazilian news outlet O Globo, spending may be restricted soon.
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The report states that authorities are looking to cut back on soccer spending and have put the nation's four most significant clubs up for sale: Al-Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli. Saudi Arabia welcomes investors to pursue ownership roles, which could impact transfers and salaries.
Nunez is contracted through 2028, but the government is keen to cut costs to protect the league's longevity. This could impact Nunez in contract negotiations and weaken Al-Hilal in the future.
Major milestone
Nunez scored in two preseason games for Liverpool before completing his move to Al-Hilal, but he's continued the momentum in Saudi Arabia. Nunez scored in three straight preseason games for Al-Hilal and has made a fast start in the Saudi Pro League, marking a major milestone in the process.
The former Liverpool striker failed to score on his league debut in a 2-0 win against Al-Riyadh, but opened his account after the international break in a 2-2 draw against Al Qadsiah. Nunez then shone on his AFC Champions League debut.
Nunez equalized against Al-Duhail on Tuesday night before Theo Hernandez scored the decisive goal in a 2-1 win. While Hernandez produced the winner, Nunez changed the game's momentum after firing Al-Hilal level.
Al-Hilal head coach Simone Inzaghi is already delighted with Nunez and recently said: "Darwin Nunez is an exceptional striker, and I’ve witnessed how quickly he has adapted to the team. He is a key player who will provide the impact we both want and need."
Mo Salah blasts critics
Although it was a stunning transfer window for Liverpool, fans were still sad to see squad members leave after winning the Premier League. Two players in particular left a mark on Liverpool: Nunez and Luis Diaz.
Wirtz took Diaz's vacant No. 7 jersey, and Isak was handed Nunez's No. 9 shirt, which led to one Liverpool fan account making a controversial statement. "Name a bigger upgrade in footballing history," the account wrote on X.
While the addition of "footballing history" may have been an attempt to boost engagement, the account received a reply from Liverpool hero Mohamed Salah. "How about we celebrate the great signings without disrespecting the PL champions?" Salah wrote.
Salah was hailed for his brutal shutdown, showing his love for former players despite the exciting additions. Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher also replied to Salah's post with a love heart emoji.
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