Casablanca – Morocco international Ilias Akhomach appears to have a place in Villarreal’s plans for the 2026-27 season, despite interest from Espanyol and other clubs in recent months.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Villarreal have informed the 22-year-old winger that they are counting on him for the new campaign, effectively closing the door on a potential departure for now.
Akhomach had emerged as one of Espanyol’s preferred targets during the club’s search for a new winger.
The Barcelona academy product was also on the Catalan side’s radar in January, but he ultimately chose to join Rayo Vallecano on loan.
The winger’s situation at Villarreal was initially less certain after Íñigo Pérez took charge, prompting several clubs to monitor his availability.
However, his performances during the club’s recent preparations and the opening weeks of the new season appear to have changed that picture.
Akhomach featured in Villarreal’s final pre-season friendly against Galatasaray, a 2-1 victory in Istanbul, before starting the league campaign against newly promoted Racing Santander.
Villarreal now expect Akhomach to compete with Nicolas Pépé for the starting role on the right side of the attack. On the opposite flank, Tajon Buchanan is expected to challenge Alberto Moleiro for playing time.
The Morocco international remains under contract with Villarreal until 2028, giving the Spanish club control over his future.
For Espanyol, the development means the search for a winger will continue.
