Elkhattabi began his professional career in the 1995–96 season with
Sparta Rotterdam. His final season – 2000–01 – proved his most successful, finishing second in the
Eredivisie Golden Boot with 21 goals in 33 appearances, only behind
Mateja Kežman. He was then signed by
AZ. He stayed there for four years, before joining
RBC Roosendaal on loan in 2005 after being rumored to
Braga,
Stoke City and
Leeds United. Elkhattabi retired in September 2006, as he was not able to find a new club after his loan with RBC had expired. Elkhattabi has a
fear of flying, a condition which severely limited his ability to play in away matches in European competitions and to travel with the national team. ==International career==