Ronald Araujo has shared how Darwin Nunez sent him a cheeky congratulatory message after his goal in Liverpool's dramatic 4-3 Champions League comeback win against Villarreal

Darwin Nunez offered his backing alongside a playful dig at himself to international teammate Ronald Araujo.

The ex-Red may have departed Anfield last summer, but he continues to follow his old club's fortunes from a distance. Araujo found the net for the second occasion in red against Villarreal during a remarkable Champions League fightback for Andoni Iraola's team.

Liverpool was 2-0 down to the Spanish side before Alexis Mac Allister and the Uruguayan defender struck back to draw the match level before the interval. The Reds ultimately prevailed 4-3, but Araujo's arcing header and ensuing celebration with the Anfield faithful captured Nunez's interest.

Speaking to The Times, the defender revealed his international colleague's response as he said: "I also speak to Darwin a lot.

"We're great friends. He congratulated me after my goal against Villarreal the other day.

"He asked me if I was going to score more goals than him [at Liverpool]!"

Nunez's self-mocking remark demonstrates much about his personality as he's capable of making light of his difficulties at Anfield.

The forward left Merseyside in 2025, having netted 40 goals and provided 26 assists across 143 outings.

Throughout his spell in England, Nunez secured the Premier League, Community Shield and Carabao Cup.

He completed a transfer to Al-Hilal during the summer of 2025, but was dropped from the squad merely months afterward following Karim Benzema's arrival.

Nunez is currently on loan at newly-promoted Al-Diriyah, where he has netted three times in nine Saudi Pro League outings. Araujo has assumed responsibility for representing Uruguay within the Liverpool squad following his summer loan switch from Barcelona.

The defender has since featured 11 times and contributed three goals or assists. As he continues to win over supporters, Araujo has kept the door open regarding a permanent transfer to Anfield.

Addressing the possibility of extending his Premier League career, the 27-year-old said: "It's too early to talk about it.

"I'd like to thank everyone for the support they've shown me, because this has helped me a great deal. Whether or not I stay at Liverpool is not entirely up to me."