At just 18 years old, Ayyoub Bouaddi is already considered one of the greatest hopes in European football. In a lengthy profile, The Athletic reflects on the exceptional journey of the Moroccan midfielder, from his beginnings at Creil to his breakout performances with LOSC and the Lions de l’Atlas. The British media also reveals that Manchester City is among the clubs most determined to recruit the Moroccan international this summer.
His rise is impressive. Arriving in Lille after being trained at AFC Creil, Bouaddi quickly became the youngest player in history to compete in a European competition with the northern club. A few months later, he made his debut in Ligue 1 before making a name for himself across Europe with a remarkable performance against Real Madrid in the Champions League, on the very day of his 17th birthday.
Beyond his qualities on the pitch, The Athletic also highlights a young man with an atypical profile. An excellent student, Bouaddi obtained his scientific baccalaureate with honors before pursuing mathematics studies at university. His former educators also emphasize his exemplary discipline, impeccable lifestyle, and maturity that distinguished him even when he was playing in youth categories.
The British media also discusses his choice to represent Morocco. After wearing the jerseys of French youth teams up to the U21s, Bouaddi decided last May to join the Lions de l’Atlas, the country of his parents’ origin. This decision is described as a heartfelt choice by those close to him, well before his first call-up with the Moroccan national team.
Under contract with Lille until 2029, Bouaddi is now one of the most sought-after players on the market. According to The Athletic, Manchester City is actively pushing to convince LOSC to part with their gem. The French club hopes to recover nearly 100 million euros for their midfielder, whose progression seems far from over.
