Official: Manchester City Signs Ayoub Bouaddi
Manchester City have completed the signing of Moroccan midfielder Ayoub Bouaddi from Lille on a five-year deal.
The transfer is subject to international clearance, with the 18-year-old committed to the Premier League champions until June 2031. Reports suggest the initial fee is €95m (£81.3m), with a further €5m (£4.3m) included in potential add-ons.
Bouaddi caught the eye with a series of impressive performances for both Lille and Morocco, cementing his status as one of Europe’s most sought-after young midfielders. Having previously represented France at youth and under-21 levels, he opted to play for Morocco, the country of his parents’ birth, and has already earned eight senior caps, notably featuring during their recent World Cup campaign.
After making his senior debut for Lille in the Europa Conference League just three days after his 16th birthday, Bouaddi went on to feature 96 times across all competitions for the French side over three seasons.
“This is a very special day for me and my family,” Bouaddi said. “Manchester City is the best club in the world for me, and it’s amazing to be here and call myself a City player. I have watched Manchester City for many years and I love their style of play. The club always tries to deliver high-quality football, and it has proven to be a team accustomed to winning.”
Manchester City sporting director Hugo Viana praised the incoming teenager’s attributes, stating that Bouaddi possesses immense potential along with exceptional football intelligence to continue his development at the highest level.
