Manchester City have completed the signing of Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from French side Lille on a five-year contract, ending months of speculation over the young player's future. The move, valued at €100 million (around $117 million), was confirmed by Lille on Wednesday.
The transfer follows Manchester City's sales of Rodri to Barcelona and Tijjani Reijnders to Al-Qadsiah, while Nico Gonzalez is also expected to leave the Etihad Stadium.
Bouaddi played a key role for Morocco at the 2026 World Cup, helping the North African side reach the quarter-finals before they were eliminated by France.
Speaking at his unveiling, Bouaddi said: “This is a very special day for me and my family. Manchester City, for me, is the best club in the world. To be here and be called a City player is a dream. I have spent most of my life working hard to become the best player I can be and reach the top. I have followed City for many years and I love their style of play.”
Bouaddi is regarded as one of the most promising young talents in the game. Having come through the French youth system, he was part of France’s national team program before opting to represent Morocco. Earlier this year, he became the youngest player to reach 50 Ligue 1 appearances.
In October 2024, a day before his 17th birthday, Bouaddi helped Lille secure a historic victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League, going up against French midfield duo Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni in that match.
Football pundits have repeatedly praised Bouaddi's composure under pressure and his excellence as a central midfielder. Unlike a purely defensive midfielder, the 18-year-old also excels at launching attacks, drawing comparisons to former midfielder Sergio Busquets.
A Morocco fan in Barcelona said: “He is amazing. Talent and professionalism at 18.” Commentator Khalil Jadallah also praised him: “He can pass, defend, hold the ball, control the tempo... all at 18.”
