Marcelino Nunez is set for an earlier than expected Norwich City pre-season return after Chile crashed out of the Copa America. 

A failure to beat Canada, managed by ex-Leeds United boss Jesse Marsch, means Chile have finished third in Group A and will return home prematurely. It is the first time they have exited the competition at this stage since 2004. 

They exit the competition having failed to score a goal, and on the back of consecutive goalless draws against Peru and Canada, as well as defeat to Argentina in the first game. It means they finished third in the group with two points. 

Nunez returned to the starting XI for Saturday's clash, partnering Rodrigo Echeverría in central midfield. 

He lasted just 45 minutes before a double change at half time saw both midfielders replaced as Chile pushed for the goal that would have proven enough to secure their spot in the knockout phase. 

Chile were reduced to 10-men after 26 minutes after Gabriel Suazo was given his marching orders for two bookable offences. Nunez saw a free kick from range saved after 36 minutes prior to his withdrawal. 

The Norwich man has received criticism in Chile for his performances at the tournament, including from former international midfielder Jorge Valdivia, who claimed the 24-year-old needed to display 'more humility' in his displays. 

“Marcelino has to play, be humble," he told RedGol. "When I say that he has to play, I mean that he has to participate, make a difference, he has the conditions and shows personality at certain times, but he has to give and contribute more.”

Nunez has been the subject of transfer interest from the Turkish side Trabzonspor, but exploratory talks are yet to progress anything more substantial. 

Norwich weren't willing to discuss any deal in detail during the Copa America and are willing to show patience surrounding his future. Trabzonspor have concluded deals to sign John Lundstram and Ozan Tufan since. 

Nunez will now enjoy a period of rest before returning to Norfolk for pre-season training under Johannes Hoff Thorup ahead of the start of the Championship campaign against Oxford United on Saturday, August 10.