Enzo Maresca impressed by Ayyoub Bouaddi’s maturity

Ayyoub Bouaddi fully succeeded in his first start with Manchester City. Playing for 75 minutes on the pitch of FC Porto, the Moroccan midfielder contributed to the Citizens’ victory (2-0), achieved thanks to a brace from Erling Haaland on the first day of the Champions League group stage. His composed performance particularly impressed Enzo Maresca. “He is very good,” the Italian coach immediately stated after the match.

The City manager emphasized the calm displayed by the 18-year-old player, even in difficult moments. “Against Coventry, he lost two balls. After losing them, he came back into our area while remaining calm. Any player could have panicked, but that shows how good he is,” Maresca explained, impressed by the Moroccan’s ability to handle pressure.

The former Chelsea coach believes that this maturity is even more remarkable at such a young age. “He is only 18 years old. We expect players like Erling, Rúben, or Mateo to manage this kind of match, but he was excellent too. We never expect that. Congratulations to Ayyoub, this is exactly why he is here with us,” he continued.

Bouaddi also seems to have quickly won over the Manchester locker room. “Players are happy when a great player arrives because they immediately see his qualities. He speaks perfect French, English, and Spanish. He stands out for his empathy and maturity. That’s why the club made the necessary efforts to bring him in,” Maresca concluded. These statements are particularly strong after only a few appearances of the Lion of the Atlas in his new colors.