The curious case of Bilal El Khannouss, a footballer of shimmering talent but seemingly brittle ethics, has reached its inevitable conclusion. As VfB Stuttgart trigger the obligation to make his loan move permanent, a chapter closes in the East Midlands that many at the King Power will be all too happy to consign to the annals of history.
One could argue with considerable conviction that El Khannouss has, for the time being, effectively sabotaged his own ascension to the game's apex. While his technical grace is undeniable, his tenure at Leicester City was marred by a petulance that did not go unnoticed.
LCFC sources suggest the Moroccan's conduct left a sour taste; a certain lack of professional decorum that would surely have been flagged by the scouting departments of the Premier League’s upper echelon. He possesses the wizardry to unlock most defences, yet currently lacks the psychological seasoning and temperament required to navigate the rigours of a top tier title tilt.
The Leicester City departed: A bitter coda for Bilal El Khannouss on Filbert Way
For the Foxes, however, the departure represents a rare moment of financial clarity amidst the fog of a dreadful season. Having secured the playmaker from Genk for a fee in the region of £21 million in 2024, the total package from Stuttgart (comprising a €3m loan fee and a €17m permanent transfer) sees LCFC recouping approximately €20 million (roughly £17 million).
"Stuttgart are to pay €20 million in total."BuLi News
Judging by the figures, Leicester will take a modest financial loss on the initial investment. Although, his substantial wages are off the books. Not to mention a significant cash injection incoming.
Therefore the City hierarchy may view this as a necessary price for harmony. Meanwhile a baller heads to the Bundesliga; leaving Leicester to wonder what might have been had his maturity matched his footwork.