Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
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WILL DARWIN NÚÑEZ PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
Darwin Núñez is pure adrenaline on the pitch: speed, power, grit, and an ambition that make him unmistakable. From his debut with Peñarol to becoming a star at Liverpool, the Uruguayan striker has built a career that combines sacrifice, talent, and a passion for scoring goals. In this article, we explore his statistics, interesting facts, and, above all, analyze whether the number 9 from Artigas will be leading the Celeste's attack at the 2026 World Cup. Get ready, because talking about Darwin is talking about intensity, emotion, and the future of Uruguayan football.
From Artigas to the World
Darwin Gabriel Núñez Ribeiro was born on June 24, 1999, in Artigas, a small city in northern Uruguay, near the border with Brazil. He grew up in a humble family and knew from a young age what it meant to fight for his dreams. His talent caught the attention of the legendary club Peñarol, which signed him for its youth divisions. However, his path was not easy: he suffered serious injuries at a young age and almost quit football. But his mentality pulled him through.
In 2017, he made his professional debut with Peñarol and soon showcased his speed, power, and ability to finish in tight spaces. A year later, he made the leap to Europe, signing for Almería in Spain in 2019. It was there that his name began to resonate: in a single season, he scored 16 goals in the Spanish Second Division, becoming the club's record signing. His meteoric rise at Benfica: In 2020, Darwin was signed by Benfica in Portugal for €24 million, a record fee for Uruguayan football. With the Lisbon club, he unleashed his full potential. In the 2021/2022 season, he was the top scorer in the Primeira Liga with 26 goals and also shone in the Champions League, scoring against giants like Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Liverpool. His unstoppable style and energy made him one of the most feared strikers in Europe. 2021/2022 season with Benfica: 34 goals in 41 matches. Average of 1 goal every 95 minutes. Top Uruguayan scorer in Europe that year. Included in the 2022 UEFA Champions League Team of the Year. That performance caught the attention of Liverpool, who didn't hesitate to sign him for 75 million euros plus add-ons. Darwin arrived to partially replace the attacking prowess left by Sadio Mané. It was his big leap: the Premier League, the stage where only the best survive.
Darwin at Liverpool: Fire, Passion, and Goals
His arrival at Liverpool in 2022 generated enormous expectations. And although his adaptation was a process, his impact was quickly felt. Darwin Núñez is one of those strikers who live on the edge: every play is a rollercoaster. He can miss a clear chance and, seconds later, score a spectacular goal. That duality makes him unique and beloved by the "Reds" fans.
Statistics with Liverpool
2022/2023 Season: 15 goals and 5 assists in all competitions.
2023/2024 Season: 22 goals and 10 assists.
Average of 3.1 shots per game.
Recorded top speed: 36.5 km/h, one of the highest in the Premier League.
The Sky Blue Heart: His Role in the Uruguayan National Team
Darwin Núñez debuted with the Uruguayan national team in 2019, scoring a goal in his first match against Peru. Since then, he has been a fundamental part of the generational change replacing the legendary Luis Suárez and Edinson Cavani. In Qatar 2022, although Uruguay didn't advance from the group stage, Darwin showed total commitment: he was one of those who ran the most and fought for every ball.
Statistics with Uruguay
More than 35 international matches until 2025.
14 goals and 10 assists with La Celeste.
Average of 3.2 shots on target per match.
Average of 1.1 goal involvements per match.
With Marcelo Bielsa in charge, Darwin has made a significant tactical leap. Now he's more involved, dropping back to link up with teammates, pressing high, and exploiting his speed on counter-attacks. He is, without a doubt, the attacking focal point of the new Uruguay. His partnership with Federico Valverde and Facundo Pellistri promises to be one of the most dynamic in South America heading into 2026. Darwin perfectly embodies the famous "Charrúa spirit." He never gives up on a ball, goes into tackles, presses, and leaves everything on the field. This attitude resonates deeply with Uruguayan fans, who see him as the natural heir to Suárez and Cavani. He has Suárez's fire, but also Cavani's nobility. He's a modern striker with a classic soul. In Darwin's own words: "Every time I put on the sky blue jersey, I feel like I'm carrying my whole country on my back." That passion is his fuel. And seeing his development, he seems destined to be Uruguay's leader at the 2026 World Cup.
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