Leicester City’s Bilal El Khannouss delivered a standout performance in a 2-0 loss to Premier League champions Manchester City. Despite receiving praise from Pep Guardiola, the 20-year-old midfielder insists he is far from impressed with himself, citing the need for consistency and higher standards.
El Khannouss earns Guardiola’s praise, but remains unfazed.
Following Leicester City’s defeat to Manchester City, Pep Guardiola took a moment to personally compliment Bilal El Khannouss on his performance. The Moroccan playmaker dazzled with his passing, control, and work ethic, drawing the attention of one of football’s most revered managers. Despite the accolades, El Khannouss was quick to dismiss the significance of the praise.
“He (Guardiola) said he was impressed by my play today. I am not,” El Khannouss told Belgian media. “I know myself, and this is the player I can be. I have to show that every week now.”
El Khannouss, who joined Leicester earlier this season, described the match as his best performance since arriving at the club. Yet, for the young midfielder, it was merely a glimpse of his potential. “I’m really confident,” he added. “I’m enjoying the game and enjoying the day because we have the best job in the world, to play football.”
Leicester’s tactical shift pays dividends in midfield control.
Leicester’s midfield, led by El Khannouss and Harry Winks, managed to claim over 50% possession against Guardiola’s side—an impressive feat, given Manchester City’s usual dominance in this area. Winks, reflecting on the team’s strategy, highlighted the importance of possession-oriented football.
“As players before the game, we said that we needed to play with the ball and rest with it,” Winks said. “It’s difficult to play in any game in the Premier League and sit deep and soak up pressure. We have to get back to enjoying the ball, keeping it, and resting with the ball.”
While Leicester’s approach ultimately failed to secure a result, it showcased a newfound resilience and adaptability under their current management. This tactical shift could be a key factor in Leicester’s push for consistency in the remaining season.
El Khannouss: A rising star for Leicester City.
At just 20 years old, Bilal El Khannouss is quickly becoming a pivotal figure in Leicester City’s squad. His confidence, composure, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game have earned him praise not only from Guardiola but also from fans and analysts alike. Yet, the midfielder remains grounded, focusing on the work needed to maintain and elevate his performances.
“After a few games now, I am adapted. People can see now who I am. I will continue to work on this and build so I can show this every week in the new year,” El Khannouss said, emphasizing his commitment to improvement.
Such determination and self-awareness are rare in young players, and they hint at a promising future for El Khannouss. His ability to rise to the occasion against a team as formidable as Manchester City underscores his potential to become one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders.
Looking ahead: What this means for Leicester City.
While the loss to Manchester City extends Leicester’s struggles this season, Bilal El Khannouss’ performance offers a silver lining. His emergence as a key player could be a turning point for the club as they seek to climb the Premier League table. Moreover, the team’s tactical flexibility, as evidenced by their ability to control possession against City, could pave the way for more competitive performances in the future.
For now, Leicester fans will be hoping that El Khannouss’ high standards and relentless drive for consistency can inspire the rest of the squad. With the young Moroccan at the heart of their midfield, the Foxes may yet rediscover their winning formula in the weeks to come.
