In a decisive statement, Moroccan international goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, star of Saudi club Al-Hilal, put an end to the speculation surrounding his footballing future, categorically denying rumors linking him to a move to Argentinian club River Plate. In a recent interview on the YouTube channel “Ezzequiel,” Bounou affirmed his complete commitment to his contract with Al-Hilal, expressing his happiness and desire to continue winning titles in the Saudi Professional League.
General context: From European champion to World Cup star
This controversy comes at a time when Bono is at the peak of his professional career. After years of shining in Spanish football with Sevilla, culminating in winning the Europa League title, Bono captured global attention with his historic performance for Morocco at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He was a key pillar of the Atlas Lions in their unprecedented achievement of reaching the World Cup semi-finals, making him a target for major European clubs during the 2023 summer transfer window.
Behind the scenes of Bayern Munich's incomplete performance
During the interview, Bono revealed intriguing details about his negotiations with German football giants Bayern Munich. He explained that he was on the verge of joining the Bavarian club to replace the injured goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, but delays in the procedures and the last-minute collapse of the deal opened the door for an offer from Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal. Bono indicated that he has no regrets about his decision, emphasizing that Al-Hilal's management showed great interest and seriousness in signing him, providing him with an ideal environment for stability and success. This prompted him to make a quick decision to move to the Saudi league, which is experiencing a qualitative leap by attracting international stars.
River Plate's dream: a deferred passion and a professional commitment
Despite his firm denial of any current intention to leave, Bono hasn't hidden his long-held dream of playing in the Argentinian league, specifically for River Plate. He had previously spoken in 2025 about his emotional connection to Argentinian football and his passion for following the club's matches. However, he clarified that this dream remains a future aspiration, and that his current focus is entirely on his career with Al-Hilal, where he is under contract until 2028. He said, "I am very happy in Saudi Arabia, and my focus is on Al-Hilal and winning more championships.".
Special praise for Neymar and a candid self-assessment
In his remarks, Bono praised his Brazilian teammate Neymar, describing him as the best player he has ever seen up close. Although Neymar's performances with Al-Hilal were not at their best due to injury, Bono emphasized that what the player offered before leaving for treatment was "amazing." In a rare moment of candor, the Moroccan goalkeeper offered a frank self-assessment, admitting that one of his biggest weaknesses is his occasional tendency towards "laziness," but he stressed that he has improved significantly over time, and that his greatest strengths lie in his intelligence on the field and his exceptional ability to read the game and make the right decisions.
A new challenge for the federation
Bono is currently preparing to lead Al-Hilal in a highly anticipated and crucial match against their arch-rivals Al-Ittihad on Saturday evening, as part of the Saudi Professional League. Al-Hilal enters the match at the top of the standings with 53 points and an undefeated record, aiming to solidify their lead and move closer to reclaiming the title. Al-Ittihad, meanwhile, sits in seventh place with 37 points, adding significant importance to the competition.
