sportskeeda
BILAL EL KHANNOUSS is convinced that the Leicester players are undoubtedly motivated by Ruud van Nistelrooy’s influence.
The Foxes Gear Up for today’s home game against Brighton after securing a crucial 3-1 win over West Ham on Tuesday.
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El Khannouss, who is 20 years old, celebrated his first Premier League goal, contributing to Van Nistelrooy’s impressive start during his Leicester journey.
While the attacking midfielder might not have been old enough to see Van Nistelrooy in his prime, he certainly recognizes talent when he witnesses it.
El Khannouss revealed that the Foxes took the Dutchman’s motivating words seriously leading up to his debut match at the King Power Stadium.
He stated: “He was very clear from the very start about how he wanted us to play.
“In training, he said, ‘Okay team, we haven’t practiced much — we’ve had just one day together. But today, you need to play with your hearts. Show the fans a different side of yourselves.’ That’s what we aimed to do.”
The Morocco international never envisioned playing under the legendary Manchester United and Real Madrid striker Van Nistelrooy when he made his £20 million move from Genk under the previous management of Steve Cooper.
He confessed: “I was too young to have watched him play.
“But I have seen highlights — I knew who he was. When Ruud walks in for the first time — and he stands right in front of you — you can instantly feel his presence.
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“He’s been an exceptional player. We really pay attention to him.”
After scoring his first league goal for Leicester, El Khannouss aspires to reproduce that success when Brighton visits the King Power Stadium today.
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He added: “Scoring in the top league in the world was an unbelievable experience. It’s a dream come true and hopefully the beginning of something special — I’m eager to net more.”
El Khannouss had only participated in three league starts under Cooper, who was sacked two weeks ago after overseeing just 12 league matches.
However, he conducted thorough research before signing with Leicester, consulting with some Moroccan international teammates prior to his transfer from Belgium.
He remarked: “Players like Hakim Ziyech, who played here for Chelsea, and Nayef Aguerd from West Ham, they emphasized how competitive this league is.
“I also spoke with Romain Saiss, who played for Wolves. They were all happy for me to be here. I sought advice before stepping onto the pitch here.
“They indicated that I was joining a reputable club with fantastic fans in a beautiful city, stating that I would grow here.
“I wouldn’t just join any club, especially not one managed by a reckless coach — you must gather information!”
El Khannouss is fluent in five languages and is currently picking up Spanish as a sixth. He views this as essential for effective communication with all his teammates.
He expressed: “In the dressing room, I can chat with Boubakary Soumare in French and Wout Faes in Dutch.
“Learning Spanish also helps me connect with Facundo Buonanotte. That’s just part of who I am.
“Football in the UK is extraordinary; it’s deeply ingrained in the culture here. The stadiums are exquisite, and you just feel it’s something special.
“I’ve been adjusting for two to three months. That period is over, and now it’s time to perform.”
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