Darwin Nunez endured a disappointing evening as Uruguay kicked off their World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia. The forward, who has been linked with a return to Liverpool, was substituted at half-time after a lacklustre first-half performance.
Uruguayan Media Consensus on Nunez's Struggles
Uruguayan media outlets were in agreement that Nunez's lack of match fitness was a major factor in his ineffective display. The striker, who joined Al Hilal from Liverpool last summer, has struggled for game time in the Saudi Pro League, particularly after the arrival of Karim Benzema. Nunez recently became a free agent after mutually terminating his contract with Al Hilal.
El Observador noted that Nunez “showed the effects of the lack of competition he had suffered throughout the year.” The publication was also critical of Uruguay's first-half performance, describing it as “restricted, restrained, cautious, timid and harmless.”
La Diaria echoed similar sentiments, stating that both Nunez and Matias Vina “left the pitch with the feeling that they lacked match fitness and competitive edge.” The outlet added that Nunez had been “out of action for too long.”
La Pais awarded Nunez a low rating of 4/10, but offered some mitigation, suggesting that “the striker received little support, which meant he didn't have the desired impact in the Saudi Arabian penalty area, although his movement did create space for Federico Vinas.” The fans' rating application on La Pais also gave Nunez ratings of 4/10 or lower.
Nunez's Future Amid Liverpool Return Claims
Despite reports from Uruguayan outlet Carve Deportiva claiming Nunez could return to Liverpool, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has dismissed the speculation. Any potential move to Anfield appears unlikely, even with Hugo Ekitike's long-term injury.
Nunez may now have to settle for a place on the bench when Uruguay face Cape Verde in their next World Cup match.
