Back in Action: Darwin Nunez Returns to Lead Al Hilal’s Attack as Injury Woes Subside

Darwin Nunez Returns From Injury

Al Hilal's Uruguayan forward Darwin Nunez has returned to training after a knee problem sidelined him in recent weeks.

He had been out since late October, missing the AFC Champions League Elite clash with Al-Gharafa and the Roshen Pro League fixtures against Al Shabab and Najma, both of which Hilal won. Saudi outlets reported that Nunez joined the group training with the squad upon recovery.

The 26-year-old, who had a knee bruise, is being prepared by coach Simone Inzaghi ahead of the league restart, with Hilal set to face Al Fateh in Riyadh on November 22 in the ninth round of the Saudi Pro League.

Nunez's Numbers and Liverpool Days

While expectations remain high, Nunez has already tallied 4 goals and 2 assists in 8 appearances across all competitions since joining last summer.

During his time at Liverpool, he registered 40 goals and 26 assists in 143 appearances in all competitions.

The Additive for the Attack

Nunez stands as one of Al Hilal's most notable signings in recent years, arriving after a standout spell with Liverpool to begin a new chapter in the Saudi Pro League. Since arriving, he has left a clear imprint on Hilal's attacking play, both in the final third presence and in his varied finishing approaches.

He combines pace and strength, with the ability to operate across forward positions. This versatility gives the coach more tactical flexibility in building the attack.

From his first matches, he has shown a strong desire to prove himself at the club, delivering high physical effort and constant pressure on opponents. This helps Hilal win back the ball higher up the pitch and start attacks from advanced zones, while his direct style has increased efficiency in front of goal, especially in matches that rely on quick transitions and wing penetration. His solid presence inside the box, and his ability to exploit crosses and finish half-chances, are among his standout traits.

Impact Beyond the Pitch

Nunez's influence extends beyond the technical side; it has also boosted the squad's mentality, bringing European-level experience and confidence in tough matches. His quick adaptation with teammates like Neves and Savic helped form a cohesive and versatile attacking unit, and his arrival has added vitality and drive to Hilal's front line, potentially shaping the remainder of domestic and continental campaigns.

Injury Absences

During the current international window, Al Hilal will be without 13 players who have joined their national teams: Mohammed Al-Yami, Nasser Al-Dosari, Mohammed Kanno, Salem Al-Dosari, Abdulkarim Darqi, Ahmed Abu Rasine, Abdullah Radif, Yassine Bounou, Theo Hernandez, Rubén Neves, Joao Cancelo, Kalidou Koulibaly, Muteb Al-Harbi, Hassan Tambakti. The squad will need to cope while these players are away.

Future of Neves

Rubén Neves, the Portugal international midfielder, has reportedly decided on his contract future with the club, according to Italian journalist Nicolo Schira. Schira claimed that the agreement is in place and Neves has extended his stay with Al Hilal until 2028, a development that would provide long-term stability in midfield.

Schira shared the update on his X account, saying the deal is sealed and Neves will remain with the club through 2028.

Punchline 1: Nunez is back, and even the knee filed a medical report confirming its own return—that’s what we call a comeback tour with two standing ovations. Punchline 2: If renewals age like wine, Neves just enlisted as captain of the cellar; 2028, here we come.