Bilal El Khannouss keeps focus on Stuttgart progress after Messi debate

Bilal El Khannouss has rejected comparisons with Lionel Messi after the Stuttgart midfielder’s goal in the club’s 4-1 Bundesliga victory over 1. FC Koln.

The Morocco international scored Stuttgart’s goal in the 39th minute as his side secured a convincing win in the second round of the German league season. After the final whistle, some observers compared the way El Khannouss struck his goal with one of Messi’s finishes.

El Khannouss, however, was quick to distance himself from any suggestion that he could be measured against the Argentina great.

“I cannot be compared with Messi. No player can be compared with Messi,” he said in comments published by YSscores.

The 21-year-old also used the opportunity to explain why he believes Stuttgart is the right club for the next stage of his career. He said the team’s participation in the UEFA Champions League was an important factor in his decision to remain focused on his development there.

“Stuttgart is the best place for me to develop as a player. We play in the Champions League,” El Khannouss added.

He said the competition was the one major experience still missing from his career to date.

“During my short career, I have played almost everything, and the only thing missing for me is the Champions League. That is why I am in the right place here,” he said.

El Khannouss also acknowledged that he had received offers from elsewhere, but said none represented the right move for him. According to the midfielder, he and Stuttgart had already agreed on a two-season plan when he joined the club.

“It is true that I received offers, but they were not the right option for me. When I arrived at Stuttgart, we set out a plan covering two seasons. I want to perform well and secure a place in the starting line-up,” he said.

His comments underline the importance he places on establishing himself at Stuttgart rather than allowing comparisons with one of football’s most celebrated players to shape the discussion around him.

The victory over 1. FC Koln provided El Khannouss with a notable contribution as Stuttgart began their Bundesliga campaign strongly. His goal also prompted the comparison with Messi, but the midfielder made clear that he views the Argentine’s status as unique.

For El Khannouss, the immediate priority is therefore continued improvement at Stuttgart, regular involvement in the starting XI and the chance to gain the Champions League experience he says has so far eluded him.