Bounou: Al-Hilal hero a global media phenomenon

On June 30, 2025, Al-Hilal sprang a surprise by eliminating Manchester City (4-3, after extra time) in the Round of 16 of the Club World Cup in Orlando, thanks largely to a sparkling Bounou. With ten saves in the match, he equalled his tournament record of 23 saves in four matches.

Praise from all quarters

• Onze Mondial spoke of a “monumental match” and “another exceptional performance”.
• RMC Sport points out that Al-Hilal was “saved on several occasions by a huge Yassine Bounou”.
• Foot Mercato hails a “great Bounou”.
• In Spain, Marca calls him a “world-class keeper”, recalling his time in La Liga.
• In England, The Telegraph calls him “one of the heroes of the World Cup”, while Sky News describes him as a “legendary bulwark”.
• ESPN compares him to “a brick wall”, so imperial were his interventions under pressure.

One save in particular, in the 23ᵉ minute, when he was already down, made a lasting impression and has been described as “anthological”, an already cult image of the tournament.

Guardiola: “Nothing more to say”.

Even Pep Guardiola, already inclined to recognize the talent of opponents, remained admiring:

“We created some good chances, but Bounou made some incredible saves. There’s nothing more to say”.

And Haaland is considering… City?

Erling Haaland congratulated his opponent, even winking at him and telling him to “come to City”, a gesture noticed by the media and proof of the respect he had earned.

At the same time, rumours are swirling that Guardiola and Manchester City may be considering Bounou to bolster their goalkeeping ranks, attracting interest from a number of major clubs.

📊 To sum up

Bounou’s performance against Manchester City was not just an individual feat: it marked a decisive step forward. The Moroccan international, adored by the world press, is shining like never before and could see new doors open, notably in the Premier League. A historic moment for him, for Al-Hilal, and for Arab soccer.