Manchester City have completed the signing of Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille in a deal worth 100 million euros (£85.6 million, $117 million), making the 18-year-old the most expensive teenager in Premier League history.
The five-year contract surpasses the previous record held by Manchester United’s Leny Yoro, who joined from Lille for £58.9 million in 2024. Bouaddi’s arrival at the Etihad comes as City undergo a significant midfield overhaul under new manager Enzo Maresca, who replaced Pep Guardiola at the end of last season.
Rising Star’s Journey to the Top
Bouaddi emerged as one of the standout performers at the recent World Cup, helping Morocco reach the quarter-finals before their elimination at the hands of France. His performances on the global stage caught the attention of Europe’s elite clubs, with City moving decisively to secure his signature.
The teenager broke into Lille’s first team at just 16 years old and went on to make 96 appearances for the French club. His rapid development and technical ability have drawn comparisons to some of the game’s finest midfielders, with City’s football director Hugo Viana expressing strong conviction in the young talent.
“A Dream Come True”
Speaking to City’s official website, Bouaddi expressed his excitement at joining the Premier League champions:
“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.”
The teenager added: “I’ve watched City for many years, and I love their style of play. City always try and play quality football and they have shown they are winners – this club feels like it’s built to win.”
Bouaddi acknowledged he has room for improvement, stating: “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.”
Midfield Revamp at City
Maresca identified central midfield as a priority area for new signings following Guardiola’s departure. Bouaddi will join Elliot Anderson, whose £116 million ($154 million) move from Nottingham Forest was announced in June, in a revamped midfield unit.
The arrivals come after City sold Spain’s World Cup-winning captain Rodri to Barcelona and Tijjani Reijnders to Al-Qadsiah, with Nico Gonzalez also poised to leave the Etihad. City remain interested in Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, though a recent deadline for a £120 million-rated bid passed without a deal being agreed.
Early Season Form
City’s Premier League campaign began with a 2-1 victory at home to Bournemouth on Sunday, following a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in the Community Shield. Maresca will hope Bouaddi’s arrival can help the club challenge for trophies this season.