The past six months have delivered just nine goals in 24 appearances for the Uruguayan striker, and now he finds himself omitted from Al Hilal’s squad for the remainder of the Saudi Pro League season.
This is also due to foreign player restrictions following the arrival of Karim Benzema who takes Nunez’s place in the side in what was a ruthless decision from the club.
"The decision was difficult, but that's the job of a coach," said Al Hilal manager Simone Inzaghi.
"He makes many decisions every day, even in every training session. Nunez and Pablo are good players. I want them in all competitions, but we know the restrictions on registering foreign players."
However, after he scored his second goal for Al-Hilal in their 2-1 win over Al-Wahda in Asian Champions League action on Monday, he sent a message to the board.
Nunez turned around and stared into the box where Al Hilal's owner sits, looking for several seconds with a smile suggesting that the board will regret leaving him out the side.
As the summer approaches, Nunez could return to Europe as he prepares to turn 27 and enter his prime. A move back to the Premier League is not off the table as several sides search for a top striker ahead of the new season.