Al-Hilal goalkeeper Yassine Bono has revealed that his decision to leave Sevilla and join the Saudi club last summer was due to the mental health issues he was facing.
“It wasn’t me. I put all my effort and experience into it, but I couldn’t stay in the team because of my mood. I needed a change for my mental health. You can’t play knowing you can’t be in the team. I had very little time for life. Training, walking the dog, sleeping and thinking about training the next day. When I saw that I didn’t have the strength to continue giving everything to the club, an opportunity presented itself for me to leave.
It is worth noting that this season, Bono has made 36 appearances in all competitions, keeping a clean sheet in 19 of those games. His current employment contract with the club runs until the summer of 2026.
Bono’s candid admission about his mental health issues and the need to change his environment highlights the growing awareness and importance of addressing the wellbeing of professional athletes. The pressure and demands of top-level football can have a significant impact on a player’s mental state, and Bono’s decision to prioritise his mental health over his sporting commitments is a commendable step.
The goalkeeper’s move to Al Hilal has seemingly provided him with the fresh start and support system he needed to regain his focus and perform at the highest level. His impressive performances this season, including a high number of clean sheets, suggest the change of scenery has been beneficial to his overall wellbeing and professional development.
Bono’s story reminds us that even the most talented and successful athletes can face mental health challenges, and that addressing these issues should be a priority for players and the clubs they represent. His openness about his experience may also inspire others to prioritise their mental wellbeing and seek the support they need when facing similar challenges.
