Núñez weighs early exit from Al Hilal

Unease after a short stay

Just half a year after joining Al Hilal, Uruguayan forward Darwin Núñez is evaluating whether his move to the Saudi Pro League has worked out as hoped. According to Olé, individuals familiar with the situation say the transition has been more difficult than expected both on and off the pitch. The Saudi Pro League has attracted several high profile international players in recent seasons, yet adapting to a new football culture, language and lifestyle can still be challenging, even for experienced footballers.

Representatives explore South American options

Olé reports that people working on Núñez’s behalf have begun sounding out potential destinations as they gauge whether a return to a more familiar football environment could benefit the 25 year old. One of the clubs contacted is River Plate, a major institution in Argentine football known for producing and attracting elite South American talent. The outreach is described as preliminary, with no formal negotiations under way, but it signals that Núñez’s camp is exploring a wide range of possibilities rather than limiting his future to Europe or the Middle East.

Performance and expectations at Al Hilal

Núñez has recorded 5 goals in 11 matches for Al Hilal, a respectable return but one that has not yet defined him as the focal point of the team’s attack. Al Hilal, one of Asia’s most successful clubs, is accustomed to major contributions from marquee signings, and both the club and supporters likely anticipated a quicker settling in period given his prior experience at Liverpool and Benfica. Whether the current situation reflects temporary adjustment issues or a deeper sense of misfit remains unclear.

Why River Plate enters the conversation

For readers less familiar with South American football, River Plate is one of Argentina’s most historic and decorated clubs. It has a reputation for rebuilding players whose careers have stalled or become unsettled abroad. A move there, even on loan, could provide Núñez with a competitive environment closer to home, reduced cultural barriers and a league that values high tempo attacking play. These factors make River a logical option for representatives looking for a setting that might help the striker regain rhythm and confidence.

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How Al Hilal might view the situation

While Al Hilal has not publicly commented on Núñez’s future, the club invested heavily in assembling a squad capable of competing not only domestically but also in the AFC Champions League. Releasing a recent marquee signing so soon would be an unexpected development. Any decision involving Núñez would need to weigh sporting requirements, financial considerations and whether a temporary or permanent move would best serve both the player and the club.

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