Yassine Bounou is not living his best days: is he being replaced in Morocco!

As the Moroccan national team prepares for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, a shadow hangs over the Atlas Lions' preparations: Yassine Bounou's worrying lack of form.

Usually imperious in goal for Al-Hilal, the Moroccan last line of defence has been going through a difficult period, with a succession of poor performances and setbacks since mid-February. A worrying state of form in the run-up to international events.

Bounou, warning signs of an incipient fragility

ntil recently, the former Sevilla goalkeeper was the talk of the town. After an injury-plagued end to 2024, he was back on the pitch with a bang, putting in a string of top-flight performances to consolidate his status as a Saudi Pro League benchmark.

His decisive saves and consistency made him one of the best goalkeepers in the league. However, February 18 marked a turning point. Having been benched against Al Wasl (2-0), he suffered his first psychological setback before a heavy defeat against Al-Ittihad (4-1), where he was powerless against a Karim Benzema in a state of grace. Then came another setback against Al Kholood (1-0), a harbinger of an incipient fragility.

Eight goals conceded in four games!

Saturday, March 1 sealed the deal. Against Al-Ahli, Bounou saw their nets tremble three times, thanks in particular to a resounding hat-trick from Ivan Toney.

In the space of four games, the giant of the Moroccan dressing room has conceded eight goals, a third of the 25 conceded since the start of the season. A damning statistic for a keeper of his calibre, who was used to excellence.

While Al-Hilal's defence is not without its faults, it has to be said that Bounou is struggling to regain his composure. His absence against Al Wasl was a major setback, and the Moroccan goalkeeper seems to have lost the self-confidence that was his strength. His leadership is wavering, his impact on matches is eroding, and doubts are creeping in.

Hazem Mlhem |

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Hazem Mlhem est un rédacteur sportif expérimenté, animé par une passion pour le football africain.