Maresca: I did not expect Ayyoub Bouaddi to handle Champions League test so well

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has praised Moroccan teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi following his impressive performance in the club’s 2-0 Champions League victory over Porto.

The 18-year-old midfielder made his first start for City and produced a composed display at the Estádio do Dragão as Erling Haaland’s second-half double secured victory for the English side.

Bouadi’s maturity on one of European football’s biggest stages particularly caught the attention of Maresca.

Bouadi shines in midfield

The Moroccan youngster played 76 minutes before being replaced by experienced midfielder Mateo Kovacic.

During his time on the pitch, Bouadi completed 54 of his 55 passes and recovered possession seven times, helping City maintain control in a difficult away fixture.

His calmness under pressure and ability to dictate play stood out, especially considering it was his first Champions League start.

Maresca praises City’s overall performance

Maresca was pleased with his team’s collective effort and felt City deserved their victory, although he believed they could have scored more goals.

“I think we were capable of scoring more goals, especially in the first half, but overall I think we deserved to win the match.”

He added: “We created enough chances to win the game. We didn’t concede many goals. It’s normal to concede some chances here, so I’m happy with the overall performance. I think I’m lucky because all the players on the team are good, and that makes it easier for the coach because he can give them all playing time, and I think the players who played tonight were excellent.”

‘Ayoub Bouadi was never confused’

The Manchester City manager reserved special praise for Bouadi, admitting he was surprised by the teenager’s ability to handle such a demanding occasion.

Maresca compared Bouadi’s composure with the experience normally expected from established players such as Haaland, Ruben Dias and Kovacic.

“The good thing is that you expect Haaland, Ruben Dias, and Mateo Kovacic to manage this game, but Ayoub Bouadi was never confused. He was very good, and I think the performance was amazing”

Major moment for Moroccan football

Bouadi’s performance represents another encouraging moment for Moroccan football, with the teenager showing he can compete at the highest level of European club football.

At just 18, the midfielder has already earned significant praise from his manager following his first major Champions League test.