A transfer fee of £85.6 million secured the services of midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi for Manchester City on 26 August 2026. This move followed a rapid ascent through the Lille academy system, where he established multiple age-related records in both Ligue 1 and European club competitions before finalizing a permanent switch to the Premier League.
Early Development and Education
Born on 2 October 2007 in Senlis, Bouaddi began his football training as a child in Creil. Beyond the pitch, he pursued academic studies, successfully earning a high school diploma in mathematics and physics through distance learning. His communication skills were recognized in June 2023 at the Elysée Palace, where he claimed victory in the fourth eloquence competition designed for participants in French football academies.
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Bouaddi joined the Lille academy in 2021 and signed his initial professional contract in August 2023. His senior debut occurred on 5 October 2023 against KÍ in the UEFA Europa Conference League. At 16 years and 3 days, he became the youngest player to participate in a European club competition. He later set a milestone in the 2024–25 UEFA Champions League by starting a 1–0 win against Real Madrid on his 17th birthday. By January 2026, he had surpassed the record held by Eden Hazard to become the youngest player to reach 50 appearances for Lille in Ligue 1.
International Transition
Although he previously served as captain for the France under-21 team, Bouaddi changed his international allegiance to Morocco. FIFA approved the switch in May 2026. Shortly after, he was included in the 26-man roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. During the tournament, he appeared in the opening match against Brazil and reached the quarter-finals against France. In that match, he recorded his fifth appearance, making him the first African teenager to reach that total at the age of 18 years and 280 days.
Playing Profile
Operating primarily as a holding midfielder, Bouaddi exhibits tactical versatility that allows him to function as a right-back when required. His approach centers on maintaining composure during high-pressure situations and dictating the flow of the match from deeper positions. His capacity to carry the ball and execute precise passes defined his performance during his time at Lille and prompted his high-value transfer to Manchester City in August 2026.
Fast facts
- Born: 2 October 2007, Senlis
- Citizenship: France and Morocco
- Primary Position: Midfielder
- Lille Debut: 5 October 2023
- Manchester City Signing Date: 26 August 2026
- Transfer Fee: £85.6 million
- World Cup Debut: 2026 against Brazil
Questions readers ask
Which professional club did Bouaddi join in 2026?
He joined the Premier League club Manchester City on 26 August 2026.
What record did Bouaddi set during his debut in the UEFA Europa Conference League?
At 16 years and 3 days old, he became the youngest player to participate in a European club competition.
