Manchester City: Maresca announces a major role for Ayyoub Bouaddi

Ayyoub Bouaddi is already considered one of the key players in Manchester City’s new project. Before facing Coventry this Saturday in the Premier League, Enzo Maresca placed the Moroccan international among the three midfielders expected to play a major role in his team, alongside Elliot Anderson and Enzo Fernández.

“The arrivals of Elliot, Enzo, and Ayyoub respond to the fact that we knew we had to change something. They are quite young and full of energy,” explained the Citizens’ coach. However, Maresca clarified that their usage would be adapted to the needs of each match: “It will depend a bit on the game plan chosen, but there is no doubt that these three players will be major elements for us.”

This last clarification does not guarantee Bouaddi a regular starting position, but it confirms the status that Manchester City intends to grant him. By mentioning him at the same level as Anderson and Fernández in the reconstruction of his midfield, Maresca shows that the Moroccan is not only recruited with a long-term perspective in mind. He is also expected to contribute this season.

A few days earlier, the Italian coach had already given a particularly flattering assessment of his new recruit. He described Bouaddi as an “old-school midfielder,” capable of finding the right balance between defensive work and collective stability. Maresca also highlighted his ball placement quality, physical strength, and intelligence, believing he could become “a very high-level player.”

However, the City coach called for patience regarding the adaptation of the 18-year-old player: “He is very calm. You wouldn’t think he is 18; he seems older. But we need to move forward gradually, as he is young and coming from another country. There is no urgency. He will help us now and in the future.” Maresca also emphasized the need to protect him: “It is my job and the club’s to manage him in the best way, not to put pressure on him. He is young and needs time.”

Bouaddi made his official debut in his new colors, coming on in the 81st minute for Elliot Anderson during the victory against Crystal Palace (4-1). His integration should remain gradual, but Maresca’s comments leave no doubt: the young Lion of the Atlas is set to play a significant role in both the present and future of Manchester City.