Saudi clubs’ new plan may affect Nunez’s future…
Darwin Nunez’s adventure in the Saudi Pro League might be on thin ice, even though he’s off to a flier with Al-Hilal. The ex-Liverpool striker, who left after a $62 million deal, has been scoring goals in pre-season like a popcorn machine spitting out kernels. However, due to a new Saudi government strategy, the 26-year-old’s career could face turbulence. With the goal to reel in soccer spendings, the government plans to sell the top clubs, potentially throwing a wrench in Nunez’s freshly inked contract. Imagine signing a new deal only to find out the club might have more owners than a game of Monopoly!
The Saudi authorities hope to reduce clubs’ reliance on the Public Investment Fund, encouraging outside investors to jump in like a kid cannonballing into a pool. Currently, 75% of these clubs are funded by the PIF, with the rest owned by the Ministry of Sport. This shake-up might force clubs like Al-Hilal to tighten purse strings, posing a challenge for new arrivals like Nunez who might feel like a guest trying to squeeze into a fully packed elevator. His Liverpool chapter ended with mixed feelings, with him scoring just 20 Premier League goals over two seasons. Nunez’s farewell was a tear-jerker, but as his career continues, who knows, maybe he’ll find a way to dribble past the unexpected Saudi twists as well!