Rabat – Moroccan international Bilal El Khannouss has stated that he prefers to compete in top-tier competitions rather than play for football clubs in Gulf countries.
“I already see guys my age making a transfer to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, or the Emirates. Everyone has to make their own choices, but when you have so much talent, I think it’s a pity,” El Khannouss stated. “You can reach the European top. We all dreamed of the Champions League, didn’t we?”
With many stars now moving to the Gulf leagues, some football fans and netizens think that European football will not be enjoyed any longer.
El Khannouss also spoke of the recent performances of the Moroccan U-23 team, expressing his happiness with the team winning the latest AFCON and qualifying for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
“It was a unique experience that I am glad I experienced… It was the first time that our country won the tournament. I am very proud of that,” El Khannouss stated.
When asked about his future plans, the Moroccan replied: “I’ve always said I’m staying. I’m happy at Genk, I feel at home here, and I don’t want to skip any steps.”
Bilal El Khannouss is still under contract with the Belgian club KRC Genk until the summer of 2027.
Disclaimer: This report initially contained a mistake in the translation that has since been corrected.
