Bilal El Khannouss, the 20-year-old Moroccan midfielder, credits Leicester City’s recent resurgence to the inspiring presence of their new manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy. Despite being too young to have witnessed Van Nistelrooy’s prolific playing career firsthand, El Khannouss recognizes the legendary striker’s aura and influence. He recounts the Dutchman’s motivating pre-match talk, emphasizing the importance of playing with heart and showcasing their renewed commitment to the fans. This motivational boost translated into a crucial 3-1 victory over West Ham, marking a positive start to Van Nistelrooy’s tenure and culminating in El Khannouss’s first Premier League goal.
El Khannouss expresses his elation at scoring his maiden Premier League goal, describing it as a dream come true and the beginning of something significant. He hopes to build upon this achievement and contribute more goals for Leicester. The young midfielder’s arrival at the club preceded Van Nistelrooy’s appointment, having been signed by the previous manager, Steve Cooper. While acknowledging he didn’t foresee playing under the Manchester United and Real Madrid legend, El Khannouss admits to being immediately struck by Van Nistelrooy’s commanding presence and the respect he commands within the squad. He emphasizes the team’s attentiveness to the new manager’s instructions, recognizing his wealth of experience and footballing pedigree.
The transition to the Premier League hasn’t been without its challenges. Before joining Leicester, El Khannouss sought advice from fellow Moroccan internationals who had plied their trade in England, including Hakim Ziyech, Nayef Aguerd, and Romain Saiss. Their insights into the league’s demanding nature and the supportive environment at Leicester reassured him about his decision. El Khannouss emphasizes the importance of such consultations, highlighting his thoughtful and measured approach to his career.
Beyond his footballing skills, El Khannouss possesses a remarkable linguistic ability, speaking five languages and currently learning Spanish. He views this multilingualism not as a mere hobby but as a crucial tool for fostering team cohesion. This allows him to connect with teammates from diverse backgrounds, further solidifying the team’s unity. El Khannouss speaks French with Boubakary Soumare, Dutch with Wout Faes, and is working on his Spanish to converse with Facundo Buonanotte. This commitment to communication underscores his dedication to integrating into the team and understanding his colleagues.
El Khannouss’s appreciation for the footballing culture in England is evident. He describes the stadiums and the overall atmosphere as something special, highlighting the unique passion surrounding the sport in the country. Having spent the initial months adapting to his new surroundings, he now feels settled and ready to fully demonstrate his capabilities on the pitch. He believes the adaptation period is over, and it’s time to perform consistently at the highest level.
The arrival of Ruud van Nistelrooy has injected fresh impetus into Leicester City, revitalizing the squad and offering a renewed sense of purpose. Bilal El Khannouss, energized by his first Premier League goal and inspired by his new manager, embodies the team’s optimism. His linguistic skills, coupled with his thoughtful approach to his career, position him as a valuable asset to Leicester City. As he continues to adapt to the rigors of English football, El Khannouss is poised to make a significant contribution to the team’s success under Van Nistelrooy’s guidance.
