VfB Stuttgart head coach Sebastian Hoeneß has backed Moroccan midfielder Bilal El Khannouss, expressing hope that the young playmaker goes all the way to win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Hoeneß revealed he has remained in regular contact with El Khannouss throughout the tournament and would be delighted to see him return to Germany as a continental champion.
“We are in constant contact (with El Khannouss). I congratulated him, and I hope he returns soon carrying the trophy,” Hoeneß said.
El Khannouss is part of Morocco’s AFCON squad and is competing on home soil, with the North African nation hosting the tournament.
His continued involvement could see Stuttgart without the midfielder for several Bundesliga fixtures, but Hoeneß believes the opportunity is invaluable.
“It rarely happens in a footballer’s career to play in a major tournament in their home country. I hope he experiences many positive moments that give him a strong boost for the rest of the season,” he added.
Morocco are set to face Cameroon in a quarter-final showdown on Friday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Although a deep run could keep El Khannouss away from club duty for up to three more matches, Hoeneß has made it clear that Stuttgart fully backs the midfielder’s international ambitions.
