Real Madrid didn’t sign me because of AFCON – Morocco goalkeeper

Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou has revealed he was the first-choice option for Real Madrid this summer following the injury to Thibaut Courtois but an appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations ruled out a move.

Los Blancos moved quickly to bring in a substitute after Courtois’ anterior cruciate ligament injury was confirmed. Courtois is not scheduled to be released until early April.

Bounou reports began to circulate shortly after the injury to the Belgian was confirmed with Sevilla apparently seeking €20 million for his signing.

He eventually signed for Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia.

But the Moroccan has now revealed he was on the top list of Madrid’s options before the signing of Kepa Arrizabalaga.

“I was the first option,” ‘Bono’ told Canal Sur (via Relevo).

“That’s what I understand. Later, the board of directors analysed the whole situation, they saw that I could go to the African Cup and miss a lot of games in an important month for Madrid… and it couldn’t be. In addition, they had other options in the form of a loan that suited them better.”

Kepa has gone on to feature in two games already for Madrid after joining on loan from Chelsea.