Bouaddi joins Morocco Throne Day celebrations as Manchester City talks intensify

Ayyoub Bouaddi attended Morocco’s official Throne Day reception in Tangier on Thursday while negotiations over a high-profile move to Manchester City continue to gather pace.

The 18-year-old midfielder, under contract with Lille until 2029, is the subject of advanced discussions between the French club and the Premier League champions, according to Foot Mercato. The report states that City are edging towards an agreement with Lille over the transfer of the Morocco international.

Bouaddi, who enjoyed a breakthrough season with Lille and then impressed at the 2026 World Cup with Morocco, is also said to have already reached an understanding over personal terms with the English club.

City are keen to bring the teenager to Manchester this summer, whereas Lille are pushing for him to remain in northern France on loan for the coming season as part of any deal. The overall cost of the transfer could exceed €90m.

World Cup displays fuel City interest

Bouaddi’s emergence has accelerated over the past year. For Lille, he featured in 42 matches in all competitions last season, starting 37 of them and providing one assist, form which earned him a place in Morocco’s World Cup squad.

He then continued that momentum on the global stage at the 2026 tournament, contributing to Morocco’s campaign and helping to raise his profile among Europe’s leading clubs. Those World Cup performances have further strengthened Manchester City’s interest in securing his signature.

The scale of the proposed fee reflects City’s belief in his long-term potential, while Lille’s stance on a loan-back underlines his importance to their current plans.

Royal tribute to Lions of the Atlas

Amid this transfer uncertainty, Bouaddi is currently on holiday and returned to Morocco to take part in the official Throne Day reception, which commemorated the 27th anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s accession to the throne.

The ceremony in Tangier brought together several members of Morocco’s World Cup squad. In a photograph widely shared by Moroccan media, Bouaddi – born in Senlis, France – can be seen in the background, recognisable by his distinct hairstyle, standing behind Sofyan Amrabat and Yassine Bounou.

During the event, King Mohammed VI paid tribute to the Lions of the Atlas, acknowledging their performances at the World Cup and their commitment to the national team.

The royal recognition capped a landmark season for Bouaddi, who now finds himself at the centre of one of the summer’s most significant potential transfers, with Manchester City and Lille still to resolve whether he moves immediately to the Etihad Stadium or spends one more year developing in Ligue 1.