Posted by Chinenye on Wed 26th Aug, 2026 - tori.ng
Manchester City have landed a highly rated teenage midfielder in a move that has already grabbed attention across football.
(Ayyoub Bouaddi. Photo Credit: Transfer News Central)
Manchester City have signed midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille.
The 18-year-old Moroccan international joins on a deal worth an initial 95 million euros plus another 5 million in potential add-ons.
He signed through to 2031 and will wear the number 32 shirt.
Bouaddi said joining City is a dream come true, describing them as the best club in the world.
He praised their style of play and their winning mentality, and said he was excited to play at the Etihad Stadium.
He acknowledged he has plenty to improve at his age but believes City is the perfect place to develop.
The signing comes as City replace Rodri, who left for Barcelona last week.
Bouaddi stood out at the World Cup this summer as a breakout star for Morocco.
Playing in five of his country's six matches as they reached the quarterfinals, the midfielder caught the world's attention for his composure and confidence against experienced opposition.
At 6ft 1in, Bouaddi uses his size to shield the ball while dribbling out of pressure situations.
Last season he completed an average of 1.2 take-ons per game, the fifth-highest among defensive midfielders in Europe's top leagues.
His dribbling regularly carried Lille into attacking areas.
Beyond his ball-carrying skills, Bouaddi displays sharp game intelligence and makes sensible decisions with the ball.
Without possession, he's a tenacious tackler and exceptional at reading the game to sweep up loose balls.