Manchester City have confirmed the signing of 18-year-old Moroccan international midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Ligue 1 side Lille. The Premier League club confirmed the deal on Wednesday, securing the player on a five-year contract that keeps him at the Etihad Stadium until 2031.
Bouaddi joins the English champions having made 96 senior appearances for Lille alongside eight senior international caps for Morocco. He made his professional debut for Lille in the UEFA Conference League just three days after his 16th birthday before becoming a regular starter across the next two seasons.
On making the move to Manchester City, Bouaddi said he was delighted to play in the Premier League.
“This is a very special day for me and my family. Manchester City are, for me, the best Club in the world. It’s a dream to be here and be able to call myself a City player. I have spent most of my life working hard to become the best player I can be and reach the top of the game.”
“I’ve watched City for many years, and I love their style of play. City always try to play quality football. And they have shown they are winners – this Club feels like it’s built to win. The squad is world-class, and Enzo is a top manager. And I’m really looking forward to playing at the Etihad Stadium, in front of all the fans,” Ayyoub added.
Ayyoub Bouaddi’s career so far
The midfielder initially featured for France at youth and U-21 levels before choosing to represent Morocco, the nation of his birth. He featured for Morocco at the 2026 World Cup tournament.
Reflecting on his development and prospects, Bouaddi said that he is keen to improve and add more layers to his game.
“I have plenty of improving to do. I am only 18. I am happy with the progress I have made so far, but I also know I can improve so much. This is undoubtedly the best place for me to do that. This Club demands trophies, and I will give everything to make sure we are challenging for every title,” he said.
