Casablanca – Ayyoub Bouaddi has spoken for the first time as a Manchester City player, expressing his pride at joining the Premier League champions and revealing what the move means to him and his family.
The 18-year-old midfielder completed his move from Lille in a deal worth €95 million plus €5 million in potential add-ons, beginning a new chapter in England after his rapid rise in French football.
Bouaddi described his arrival at City as a major moment in his young career.
“I am really, really happy – really proud to be here at one of the greatest clubs in the world.”
The Morocco international also offered insight into the type of player City can expect to see on the pitch, emphasizing his willingness to prioritize the team over individual recognition.
“I am a player who plays for the team. I try to put my teammate in the best position and to give everything every time for the team.”
Family at the heart of his journey
For Bouaddi, the move to Manchester is also a moment he wants to share with the people who supported him from the beginning.
The midfielder mentioned the role his family has played throughout his development and said having them alongside him makes the achievement even more meaningful.
“I wouldn’t be here without my family, so I am really happy to have them next to me.”
He added that making his family proud remains one of the reasons he continues to pursue a football career.
From Morocco’s World Cup to the Premier League
Bouaddi’s move to City comes after a memorable period in his career, which included representing Morocco at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Reflecting on the experience, he described playing on football’s biggest international stage as something he had dreamed of since childhood.
“It was an amazing experience playing in the World Cup for Morocco – the fans and all the love I received. It was just a dream of a kid.”
His next challenge will come in the Premier League, a competition Bouaddi said he has long viewed as the pinnacle of club football.
“I think the Premier League is the most attractive and most competitive championship in the world… the best championship in the world!”
A message for City supporters
Bouaddi also spoke warmly about his first impressions of Manchester, saying the people have already helped him feel welcome in his new surroundings.
Now, he is eager to experience the atmosphere at the Etihad Stadium and repay the supporters for their backing.
“They are the ones who are going to cheer for you, give 100%, travel for you so I can’t wait to see them and make them proud as well.”
After making a remarkable rise from Lille’s academy to becoming one of Europe’s most highly valued young midfielders, Bouaddi now faces the biggest challenge of his career.
At City, he will have the opportunity to establish himself at the highest level while beginning a journey he hopes will be defined by his own identity.
