Darwin Núñez

Main offensive weapon

Nunez has been named in Uruguay's World Cup squad and is expected to lead the attack under coach Marcelo Bielsa, arriving at the tournament after a first season in the Saudi Pro League that yielded six goals and four assists across 16 appearances.

Analysis: Nunez's move to Saudi Arabia raised questions about his ability to maintain the level needed to perform at a World Cup, but his goal-scoring output and physical presence remain intact, and his role as Uruguay's second-choice penalty taker gives him an additional avenue to contribute at crucial moments. The powerful forward's combination of pace, physicality and directness in behind defensive lines makes him one of the most uncomfortable opponents to face at his best, and coach Marcelo Bielsa will be counting on him to provide the attacking thrust and goal threat needed to carry Uruguay deep into the tournament. His fitness and form heading into the competition will be one of the key factors in determining how dangerous the Celestes can be in front of goal this summer.