Inzaghi’s Hidden Gambit: A Young Keeper Poised to Back Bono at Al Hilal
17 November 2025
Inzaghi’s Backup Plan
Italian manager Simone Inzaghi is actively grooming Matteo Batoyet as Bono’s potential successor in the Al Hilal goal. Batoyet arrived from Lyon at the start of the season but has not yet appeared for the first team, with Inzaghi continuing to rely on Morocco’s Yassine Bono across all competitions.
Saudi outlet Al Riyadiyah reported that Inzaghi was pleased by Batoyet’s performance with the club’s under-21 squad, including a standout showing in a recent Elite League match against Buqayriyah. The former Lyon shot-stopper has been observed making key saves and organizing from the back, signaling readiness to step up when needed.
Batoyet recently featured for Lyon’s former youth side in a game against Buqairiyah in the Elite League, delivering a string of notable stops that caught Inzaghi’s eye. The youngster has been training with the senior squad and is being prepared to stay sharp during Bono’s possible absences due to the Africa Cup of Nations.
His contract with Al Hilal runs through 2027 and he is registered as an under-21 player. He is praised for quick reflexes, good anticipation, and a composed ball-playing style that fits the team’s philosophy of building from the back and preferring to press high, even in difficult moments.
Transfer Drama and the Road Ahead
Beyond Batoyet, Saudi press report a separate development: Al Hilal has shown interest in Morad Hossawi from Gulf, with a formal bid placed for the 24-year-old defender. Hossawi’s current deal with Gulf runs for four more seasons, taking him to 2029. The report notes a clause in his contract that could trigger a bidding war if the selling club holds a 40% share in the player’s future transfer.
According to the outlet, clubs, including some under privatization with strong budgets, have begun informal talks with Gulf’s management about the sale. While no price is disclosed, Gulf’s leadership must weigh financial implications carefully, especially to avoid past missteps where clauses affected the sale price. Ahmed Khreida is cited as leading the Gulf board in negotiating terms to maximize value for the club and its owners.
In short, Hilal’s transfer strategy blends youth development with potential marquee acquisitions. Batoyet’s progression could provide Bono with reliable cover during international duty, while Hossawi’s availability could tilt the balance in a crowded market if a bid is accepted. If nothing else, it keeps the saga entertaining for fans and pundits alike.
Punchline time: If goalkeepers are security guards, Batoyet just landed the night shift. And if Morad’s bid sparks a bidding war, the transfer window might need a bigger coffee machine than the press room.
