Yassine Bounou’s Al Hilal future in doubt as reduced role could trigger summer exit

Morocco international goalkeeper Yassine Bounou could face an uncertain future at Al Hilal, with reports suggesting the Saudi Pro League club is considering reducing his role as part of a planned squad reshuffle ahead of the new season.

The 35-year-old goalkeeper, who has been a key figure for Al Hilal since joining the club, is reportedly at the centre of discussions over the club’s foreign player allocation.

According to recent reports, the Saudi side may alter its squad composition following an expected new signing, a move that could directly affect Bounou’s status.

Several reports indicate that Al Hilal have reached an agreement with West Ham United for the signing of Dutch winger Smurfiel, with an official announcement anticipated within the next two days.

If the transfer is completed, the club is expected to review its list of foreign players registered for domestic competitions.

Under the reported plan, Bounou would no longer be included in Al Hilal’s squad for Saudi domestic tournaments.

Instead, Saudi international goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais would become the first-choice option in local competitions, while the Moroccan would be reserved exclusively for AFC Champions League matches.

The proposed arrangement is said to be part of Al Hilal’s broader strategy to create space for another foreign player while maintaining flexibility for additional signings before the new campaign begins.

Al Hilal weighing changes to foreign player list

The reported restructuring has raised questions about Bounou’s long-term future at the club.

While the goalkeeper remains one of Al Hilal’s most influential players, the possibility of limiting his appearances could significantly change his role within the squad.

According to reports, the Saudi club believes adjusting its foreign player registrations would allow it to strengthen other areas of the team without exceeding league regulations.

If implemented, Bounou’s involvement would be largely restricted to continental competition, leaving domestic matches to Al Owais.

Such a change would represent a notable shift for a player who has regularly featured for the club since his arrival.

Although no official decision has been announced, speculation surrounding the goalkeeper’s future has continued to grow as Al Hilal prepare for the upcoming season.

Summer departure remains a possibility

Reports also suggest that reducing Bounou’s responsibilities may not be the only option under consideration.

A summer departure has reportedly not been ruled out should the Moroccan international decide against accepting a more limited role.

While no agreement regarding an exit has been confirmed, the possibility remains under discussion as the club finalises its plans for the new campaign.

Bounou has played an important role in Al Hilal’s recent successes and has established himself as one of the squad’s most experienced performers.

However, with the club preparing for further changes before the transfer window closes, uncertainty now surrounds his future.

The coming days are expected to be significant as Al Hilal make key decisions regarding their squad composition.

Whether Bounou remains an important part of those plans or seeks a move elsewhere will likely depend on the outcome of those discussions.