Nunez Back in Action: Al Hilal Ready to Tackle Al Fateh
19 November 2025
Nunez Cleared to Rejoin Al Hilal Ahead of Al Fateh
Al Hilal has announced that Darwin Nunez is fit to feature against Al Fateh in the Saudi Pro League, signaling a timely return after an injury that kept him out for weeks. The game will be hosted at Kingdom Arena on Saturday, in the ninth round of the league season.
About 72 hours before kickoff, the club posted images from a training session on X showing Nunez among the group, signaling his approach to full involvement. The club confirmed in the caption that Nunez had participated in the training session.
Following intensive rehabilitation in the days prior, Nunez received the green light to take part in the opening part of yesterday's training before joining the full squad today, underscoring the team's confidence in his readiness for the match.
Impact of the Return on Al Hilal's Attack
From his return, it was clear the squad is regaining one of its most dangerous attacking assets. Nunez is not just a classic poacher; he moves, creates space, and can terrorize defensive lines, allowing wingers Salem Al-Dawsari and Malcolm to exploit spaces more freely. His presence helps the team press and transition with more venom, which can re-balance the attack after a period of relative flatness.
In the dressing room, his return injects a competitive edge and heightens the standard for everyone. The forward's presence is expected to push teammates to raise their game and spur renewed competition for starting spots as the season intensifies.
With Nunez back, Al Hilal should approach the Al Fateh game with greater cohesion in the final third, maximizing the link-up between the striker, the wingers, and midfield runners. His ability to threaten from half spaces and inside the box could unlock chances that had been difficult to fashion.
Beyond the attack, the defense and the press may benefit as well. The team has thrived on quick recovery and aggressive pressure, and Nunez’s energy and willingness to chase down balls can accelerate turnovers and keep the tempo high as the season tightens.
In the dressing room, the forward’s return is also expected to lift the mood and the drive across the squad. His competitive spirit tends to push teammates to elevate their performances, a welcome boost as Al Hilal navigates a demanding period.
Looking ahead to the match against Al Fateh, the club appears closer to full strength. The offensive unit, supported by the midfield and defense, should operate with renewed balance, and Nunez’s presence could finally unlock some of the chances that had eluded the team in his absence.
Challenging Times Ahead
As the international window closes, Al Hilal enters one of the most demanding stretches of the campaign. The club has lofty ambitions across all competitions and must navigate a crowded calendar with a squad under pressure from fans and management after summer reinforcements.
The Asian Champions League adds another layer of challenge, demanding mental and physical readiness to adapt to different opponents who rely on power, pace, and rapid transitions. Success in Asia would enhance the squad’s influence and help manage the heavy load back home.
With Nunez back in the fold, Al Hilal hopes to sustain momentum through this crucial phase, translating his return into tangible results and renewed confidence across the squad.
Punchline 1: If goals came with a warranty, Nunez would have lifetime coverage by now.
Punchline 2: And if you still can’t pronounce his name, just call him Nunez—the man who makes nets dance.
