Karim Benzema replaced Darwin Nunez in Al Hilal’s 25-man squad in the Saudi Professional League, but the former Liverpool star responded to the disrespect in the best possible way.
Darwin Nunez was brutally dropped by Al Hilal (Image: Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)
Darwin Nuñez made headlines for his football after being left out of Al Hilal’s squad for the second half of the Saudi Professional League season. Former Liverpool star Nunez was brutally sacked following the arrival of Karim Benzema in January.
Saudi Arabian clubs can only include eight foreign players born before 2003 on their 25-a-side squads, and Nuñez was on the autumn squad. It was a new low for the striker, who joined Al Hilal from Liverpool last summer for a deposit of £46.2m.
However, Nunez can still play in AFC Champions League matches. On Monday, the Uruguay international was cleared to start the match between Al Hilal and Al Wahda and was given the goods.
Nuñez scored both goals as the Saudi giants defeated UAE’s Al Wahda 2-1. After scoring his first header, the 26-year-old had a quiet celebration.
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After giving Al Hilal the lead again in the 77th minute, Nunez turned and stared straight into the owners’ box inside the Kingdom Arena. It was a sharp reminder of what the former Benfica forward is capable of, taking his tally this season to nine goals in 24 games.
Nuñez wasn’t the only player left out of the team. Former Arsenal centre-back Pablo Mari was also ruled out and played an hour in Tuesday’s win. Al Hilal coach Simone Inzaghi admitted: “It was a difficult decision, but that is the coach’s job.”
“He makes a lot of decisions every day and in every training session. Nuñez and Pablo are good players. I want them in all competitions, but we know that there are restrictions on the registration of foreign players.
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“It was not possible to register Marcos Leonardo as a player born in Saudi Arabia. Time was of the essence and I had to make a difficult decision. I calmly informed the excluded players of my decision.”
Inzaghi added: “Everyone knows about Benzema. He is a great champion. He doesn’t need a hat-trick to show his potential. We are happy to have him in the team. He will benefit us in every way, not just on the pitch.”
Al Hilal currently lead Saudi Arabia, one point ahead of second-placed Al Nasr and three points ahead of third-placed Al Ahli. Inzaghi’s side face reigning champions Al Ittihad on Saturday before traveling to Al Ta’oun in midweek as they look to continue their unbeaten run in the league.
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