As Manchester City seeks to finalize the arrival of Ayyoub Bouaddi, Olivier Giroud has delivered a particularly laudatory analysis of his young teammate at LOSC. In an excerpt broadcast by BBC Radio 5 Live Sport, the French striker emphasized the calmness, confidence, and personality of the Moroccan international midfielder, who does not seem disturbed by the interest from major European clubs.
Giroud revealed that some of his acquaintances see Bouaddi as a blend of two midfield references. “Friends sent me photos of Patrick Vieira and Sergio Busquets, saying he was a mix of both,” recounted the former French international. A flattering comparison that the Lille player took care to qualify: Bouaddi does not yet possess the technical mastery of Busquets or the physical power of Vieira, but his potential could allow him to gradually approach these profiles.
The former Arsenal and AC Milan striker primarily sees the Moroccan as a complete and very versatile player, capable of intervening in all areas of the pitch. His activity also reminds him of N’Golo Kanté. At just 18 years old, Bouaddi still has significant room for physical development, but his game reading, technical ease, and ability to occupy multiple roles already impress his experienced teammate.
However, Giroud identified one area where the Atlas Lion needs to make a leap: his offensive efficiency. “In Lille, we tease him a lot about his finishing,” he confided. According to him, Bouaddi needs to be more aggressive as he approaches the goal and have a greater impact in the final third. This is a well-known area for improvement for the player, who could soon continue his development at Manchester City, which is reported to be in advanced discussions with Lille for a deal that could reach £85 million.
