Rabat – Manchester City are stepping up their pursuit of Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, with the Premier League champions pushing hard to secure the young Lille player’s signature after his breakout performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to The Athletic.
The report recalls that Bouaddi’s displays for Morocco have further strengthened the interest of several European giants, although Manchester City are currently leading the race. Lille is prepared to consider offers for the 18-year-old but is believed to value him at around €100 million, a fee that is expected to discourage many potential buyers.
Lille are waiting for Bouaddi to return from his post-World Cup break before discussing all possible options with the player and his representatives, including the possibility of staying at the French club for another season.
While some clubs would be willing to sign Bouaddi and allow him to continue his development at Lille on loan, Manchester City would prefer to integrate him directly into Pep Guardiola’s first-team squad. The club are eager to strengthen their midfield following Bernardo Silva’s departure and view Bouaddi as one of their priority targets.
Manchester City has admired the midfielder long before the World Cup, but his performances in the tournament have confirmed both his current quality and enormous potential. Arsenal and Manchester United have also maintained contact with Bouaddi’s representatives over the past year, although City are currently considered the strongest contenders.
Bouaddi enjoyed a remarkable World Cup with Morocco, forming an impressive midfield partnership with Neil El Aynaoui as the Atlas Lions reached the quarter-finals for the second consecutive time. His composure, intelligence, and maturity on football’s biggest stage turned him into one of the tournament’s breakout stars.
An impressive talent since young age
Bouaddi’s rise has been equally impressive at club level. After joining Lille’s academy from AFC Creil, he became the youngest player in UEFA club competition history at just 16 years and three days old. Weeks later, he made his Ligue 1 debut, becoming the youngest player to feature in the French top flight since 1981.
His reputation continued to grow after delivering a standout performance in Lille’s memorable Champions League victory over Real Madrid on his 17th birthday.
Now regarded as one of the brightest young midfielders in European football, Bouaddi is expected to make a decision on his future soon. The biggest question is whether he is ready to compete immediately for a place in Manchester City’s first team or continue his development at Lille before making the next step in his career.
