Marcelino Núñez faces Ipswich uncertainty after Chile controversy

Ipswich Town midfielder Marcelino Núñez faces an uncertain future after falling out of Gary O'Neil's Premier League plans and being omitted from Chile's November squad.

The 26-year-old has made just two league appearances this season, despite playing an important role in Ipswich's promotion campaign.

His last senior appearance came against Arsenal in the EFL Cup on 15 September, before a controversial departure from Chile's national-team camp attracted criticism in his homeland.

Chile's football federation announced on 30 September that Núñez had left the international squad for personal reasons.

Manager Nicolás Córdova later confirmed that the midfielder had chosen to leave but denied expelling him or being involved in an argument.

Núñez was subsequently omitted from Chile's November squad.

Former Chile international Jorge Contreras criticised the decision in an interview with RedGol published on 10 October, suggesting it could affect the midfielder's standing at Ipswich.

Contreras argued that players must respect their international responsibilities even when disappointed about their involvement.

However, there is no evidence that Ipswich have disciplined Núñez over the incident. His absence from Premier League action began before he left Chile's camp.

Núñez started Ipswich's opening two league matches against Sunderland and Manchester United but has not featured in the competition since August.

According to Chilean outlet Emol, O'Neil has said the midfielder requested Under-21 playing time to maintain his fitness.

The same publication has linked Núñez with Turkish club Trabzonspor ahead of the January transfer window.

However, no formal offer or agreement has been confirmed, and Ipswich have not publicly indicated that they intend to sell him.

For now, Núñez's immediate challenge is regaining a place in O'Neil's first-team plans.