Three Possible Summer Scenarios for Bilal El Khannouss Following Ruud van Nistelrooy’s Firm Backing
Leicester May Hold On to Star Playmaker if Valuation Isn't Met This Summer
El Khannouss Shines Bright, but Leicester’s Relegation Threat Puts Future in Doubt
Ruud van Nistelrooy is convinced that Bilal El Khannouss represents a cornerstone of Leicester City’s future.
Yet, with relegation to the Championship looming large, the playmaker’s long-term stay at the King Power Stadium may be far from certain.
Since taking over as manager, van Nistelrooy has shown complete faith in the Moroccan talent, starting him in every Premier League fixture under his leadership.
Despite a season marred by poor form, El Khannouss has emerged as a rare bright spot in an otherwise disappointing campaign.
Relegation could be confirmed before Leicester even take the field against Liverpool this weekend.
If it isn’t, they’ll need nothing short of a victory over the title contenders to delay the inevitable drop to the Championship.
El Khannouss, however, has a chance to prove himself once again on a grand stage.
According to van Nistelrooy, the 20-year-old is exactly the type of player who can lead Leicester into a brighter future.
“He doesn’t shy away from big games,” van Nistelrooy said. “He showed his quality in the reverse fixture against Manchester City.
This is his first season in the Premier League and he’s progressing well.
“He’s working hard to improve his output. The goals and assists will come—it’s just a matter of time. There are still matches ahead for him to make that impact.”
The Dutchman added, “He’s still very young, but he’s got the right attitude. He’s definitely someone who can help carry the club forward.”
Still, the reality of relegation may complicate things. Just months ago, van Nistelrooy was praising El Khannouss as a future Champions League-level talent.
A season in the Championship would feel like a step backward for someone with his potential.
The midfielder is now one of Leicester’s most valuable assets.
Under Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), selling him could be a way to ease financial pressures.
With one year gone on a four-year deal following a £20 million move, El Khannouss’s book value sits around £15 million.
However, the club may ask for significantly more.
Yet, while his technical ability is clear, questions remain about whether his end product is ready for the top tier.
For now, both his and Leicester’s futures remain up in the air.
