The Uruguayan Darwin Nunez, striker for the Saudi Al-Hilal team, is close to returning to collective training after completing the majority of his rehabilitation program for the knee injury he sustained earlier.

The Saudi newspaper "Al-Riyadiyah" confirmed that Nunez successfully passed the treatment phase, having been away from training since September 24, during which time he underwent intensive rehabilitation under the supervision of the club's medical staff.

Reports indicated that the Uruguayan striker has made significant progress in his physical rehabilitation and is on the verge of joining collective training in the coming days in preparation for upcoming matches.

Nunez is set to undergo precise fitness tests before a final decision is made regarding his participation against Al-Ettifaq in the anticipated match on Saturday as part of the fifth round of the Roshen Saudi League.

Nunez has missed three consecutive matches for Al-Hilal against Al-Akhidood in the league, Al-Adalah in the King’s Cup, and Nasaf in the AFC Champions League, which has impacted the team's attacking strength.

Al-Hilal will visit Al-Ettifaq at the Ego Stadium in Dammam on Saturday at 5:45 PM local time, in a match where the leader seeks to regain its winning momentum.

Al-Hilal currently occupies the sixth position in the Saudi Professional League standings with 8 points, collected from two wins and two draws, and hopes to achieve its third victory to compete strongly for the top spot.