Learn About Yassine Bounou and Mustapha Hadji – A Moroccan Legend and A Moroccan goal keeper who won the hearts of many fans during the World Cup of 2022

Paul | November 30, 2023 | Morocco, Sports | No Comments

Yassine Bounou

Bono, born Yassine Bounou on April 5, 1991, is a professional football goalkeeper who represents the Moroccan national team. He made his debut in professional football during the 2010–2011 season with Wydad Casablanca. Bono spent two years with Wydad Casablanca, accumulating nine appearances during that period.

Originally from Canada, Bono was born in the city of Montreal. At 31 years old, he has established himself as a seasoned goalkeeper with notable contributions to his teams. Standing at an impressive height of 6 feet, 4 inches, Bono utilizes his stature effectively, making spectacular saves on the field. His experience and commanding presence in goal have contributed to his reputation as a skilled and reliable goalkeeper for both club and country.

In the 2012-2013 season, Bono joined Atlético Madrid B club. His impressive performances earned him a place on the Atlético Madrid first team, followed by a loan stint at Real Zaragoza. Subsequently, after signing with Girona, he briefly went on loan to Zaragoza. During this period, Bono played a crucial role in Girona’s success, contributing to their promotion to La Liga from the Spanish second tier, the Segunda División. His talent and contributions to the team’s success showcased his capabilities as a goalkeeper.

Yassine Bounou, known as Bono, has had a significant impact on every team he has played for since his debut in the 2010–2011 season. Notably, as a goalkeeper, he achieved the rare feat of scoring a goal.

One of the highlights of his career includes contributing to Sevilla’s victory in the 2019–2020 UEFA Europa League, where he played a crucial role in their championship-winning campaign. Additionally, his outstanding performances earned him the Zamora Trophy for Best Goalkeeper in La Liga during that season. Bono has been the starting goalkeeper for the Moroccan National Team since 2013, showcasing his consistency and reliability at the international level.

In terms of salary, as of the latest available information, Bono earns approximately $948,948 per year. As of December 2022, his estimated net worth is around $5 million, reflecting both his professional success and financial achievements in the world of football.

Mustapha Hadji

Mustapha Hadji, born on November 16, 1971, is a Moroccan football coach and former player. Notably, he was recognized as the 50th greatest African player of all time by African football expert Ed Dove. Hadji has made significant contributions to the sport both as a player and in his coaching career.

Mustapha Hadji’s football journey took him through various clubs, starting in France with AS Nancy, where he progressed from the youth setup to the senior squad. Subsequently, he played for Sporting Lisbon and Deportivo la Coruña before gaining prominence at Coventry City, particularly under manager Gordon Strachan in 1999.

Known for his goal-scoring abilities, pace, and skill as an attacking midfielder, Hadji formed a notable partnership with fellow Moroccan international Youssef Chippo during his time at Coventry. This partnership even led to a unique trend among City fans, who wore fezzes to games in their honor.

After Coventry’s relegation in 2001, Hadji moved to local rivals Aston Villa, where he had previously scored against them multiple times. Despite sporadic appearances and notable goals, including ones against Southampton and Everton in the league and in the UEFA Cup against Varteks, he was released on a free transfer to Espanyol in Spain, where he remained until June 2004.