VfB Stuttgart have publicly challenged Bilal El Khannouss to rediscover the form he showed earlier this season, dismissing suggestions he will be sold this summer despite reports of the player exploring other options. The club’s management expressed dissatisfaction with the Moroccan midfielder’s output in the second half of the 2023-24 campaign, according to AbsolutFußball.
El Khannouss arrived at Stuttgart with a growing reputation and quickly impressed, contributing 6 goals and 4 assists in his first 20 appearances across all competitions. However, his impact waned after the winter break, managing only 2 goals and 4 assists in the remaining matches. This dip in form has prompted the club to issue a clear expectation for improvement next season.
Despite the concerns over his recent performances, Stuttgart are committed to retaining El Khannouss, who signed a long-term contract with the club until 2030. This stance contradicts earlier speculation linking him with a potential move away from the Mercedes-Benz Arena. The club clearly views the 22-year-old as a key part of their future plans, despite the need for greater consistency.
Adding another layer to the situation, El Khannouss recently changed his representation, appointing a new agency. Reports suggest this agency is actively sounding out potential opportunities for the player, indicating his ambition to continue progressing his career. This move could be interpreted as a proactive step by El Khannouss to ensure he has options should his performances not meet the expectations set by Stuttgart.
Stuttgart finished second in the Bundesliga this season, securing Champions League qualification. El Khannouss will be expected to play a significant role in their European campaign, and the club will be hoping he can recapture the dynamic form he displayed earlier in the season. His ability to do so could be crucial to Stuttgart’s success both domestically and in Europe.
