Ayyoub Bouaddi
MCI
CM
Creative Playmaker
Oct 2, 2007 (18)
Right
6'1"
159 lb
Man CityMakes Etihad debut off bench
Bouaddi made his first appearance at the Etihad Stadium after coming off the bench in the 76th minute of Saturday's 1-0 win over Coventry City.
Analysis: Bouaddi replaced Enzo Fernandez for the final minutes of his second match as a Manchester City player, positioning himself as a defensive midfielder but also contributing 14 accurate passes and one successful dribble in addition to a pair of blocks. The appearance marks another early step in Bouaddi's integration after his recent move to Manchester City following a solid campaign with French side Lille and an impactful presence in Morocco's World Cup run. He remains available as a direct backup for Fernandez and Elliot Anderson in midfield.
Earns debut
Bouaddi had one interception in Friday's 4-1 win versus Crystal Palace.
Analysis: Bouaddi was introduced to City earlier this week after his transfer from Lille and has already earned some time, with the midfielder featuring for eight minutes from the bench. He would see minimal work in his time on the field, although it was still bright to see him featuring so quickly after the move. His role should begin to elevate in the coming weeks, with a starting role likely beckoning the midfielder.
Available for Palace clash
Bouaddi is available for Friday's clash against Crystal Palace following his arrival from Lille, with the midfielder already at full fitness, according to coach Enzo Maresca. "Yeah, he's ready, he was working with his former club so he is fit. We will see how long it is in terms of adaptation but for sure he is ready to go."
Analysis: Bouaddi arrives at Manchester City fully fit after remaining in training with Lille prior to completing his transfer, putting him immediately in contention for Friday's squad against Crystal Palace. The 18-year-old may still require some time to adapt to his new surroundings and City's system, but fitness should not prevent him from making his debut. He joins a competitive midfield group featuring Elliot Anderson, Nico O'Reilly and Mateo Kovacic, so his initial workload will likely depend on how quickly he settles into the side.
Signs five-year deal with Man City
Bouaddi has joined Manchester City from Lille on a five-year contract through 2031, the club announced.
Analysis: Bouaddi arrives as one of Europe's most highly regarded young midfielders after making 96 senior appearances for Lille despite being only 18. The Morocco international also impressed at the World Cup, showcasing his composure in possession, defensive awareness and ability to dictate play from a deeper midfield position. Bouaddi strengthens a central midfield group already featuring Elliot Anderson, Nico O'Reilly and Mateo Kovacic, and while competition for minutes should be significant, his versatility could allow him to earn a meaningful role during his first season in England.
Reports to LOSC for preseson
Bouaddi is back at the Domaine de Luchin for preseason with Lille, the club posted.
Analysis: Bouaddi capped an impressive World Cup with Morocco by starting all five of the country's matches, totaling 384 minutes and completing 235 passes as he dictated the midfield throughout the tournament. The 18 year old midfielder's return to club training now shifts focus to preseason preparations, though his future at Lille could be in question given reported interest from Manchester City, a situation that will be worth monitoring as the transfer window progresses.
Completes 35 passes
Bouaddi generated one tackle (zero won) and one clearance in Thursday's 2-0 defeat to France.
Analysis: Bouaddi was once again given the start for Morocco as the 18-year-old continues to make a name for himself, notching 62 minutes of play, to go along with one tackle, a clearance and 35 passes completed. The Lille midfielder started in all five appearances this World Cup while recording 384 minutes of play, completing a solid 235 passes while he dictated the midfield.
Limited fantasy output in win
Bouaddi generated one tackle (one won) and two clearances in Saturday's 3-0 victory versus Canada.
Analysis: Bouaddi has been one of the best players for Morocco in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but that hasn't translated to most fantasy formats due to the defensive nature of his role. The Lille star has started in four games for the Atlas Lions in the World Cup, tallying three shots, eight tackles, five clearances and 201 passes thus far.
Two shots in round of 32
Bouaddi registered two shots (zero on goal) in Monday's 1-1 (4-3) penalty shootout win against Netherlands.
Analysis: Bouaddi started his third game of the World Cup campaign at just 18 years old. He had been rested for the final group game against Haiti, having played 90 minutes in the opening two group games. He came off after 79 minutes in this match as Morocco were searching for a goal in the final 10 minutes. He took two shots in the match, his most in any game throughout the tournament.
Records 90 minutes for Morocco
Bouaddi recorded one shot and one tackle in Friday's 1-0 win over Scotland.
Analysis: Bouaddi was once again tasked with being the anchor for the Moroccan team as he controlled the midfield, completing 59 passes. He would see a shot in the attack, although most of his work was in the defense with an interception, a tackle and one clearance. However, he is still doing his role after only a goal conceded in two games, likely to maintain his role.
Fills stat sheet defensively
Bouaddi had four tackles (one won) and one clearance in Saturday's 1-1 draw versus Brazil.
Analysis: Even though the stats might not show it from a fantasy perspective, it's fair to say Bouaddi was one of the best players for Morocco in this draw. His composure in midfield was key when Brazil dominated possession and won nine duels, the second-highest mark on the team. The Lille star should keep his place in the XI against Scotland on June 19. That said, his fantasy appeal should remain fairly low as long as he continues in a holding role.
Select Player
Search and select a player to compare