Enzo Maresca backs Morocco youngster Ayoub Bouaddi to become Manchester City great

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has been impressed by the maturity of Moroccan youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi and believes the 18-year-old has the potential to leave a significant mark at the club.

Bouaddi made the move to Manchester City from Lille during the summer in a deal that could reach €100 million, underlining the huge expectations surrounding the highly rated midfielder.

Despite his age, Bouaddi has quickly caught Maresca’s attention with his personality, attitude and approach to the game. The Italian coach believes the midfielder carries himself like someone much older, particularly when interacting with him away from the pitch.

Maresca says conversations with Bouaddi can easily make people forget that he is still a teenager, describing his mentality as being closer to that of a player in his mid-twenties.

The City boss also believes the Morocco international has the qualities needed to eventually become one of the club’s outstanding players.

“He has a lot of potential and the qualities to become one of the greatest players in Manchester City’s history,” Maresca said, highlighting the long-term possibilities surrounding the youngster.

However, Maresca is aware that Bouaddi’s development must be handled carefully. Rather than placing immediate pressure on the teenager because of his price tag and growing reputation, the manager wants to give him enough time and space to adapt to English football.

Maresca believes City must be sensible with Bouaddi’s involvement, particularly when it comes to his playing time, the number of matches he features in and the responsibilities placed on him.

The aim, according to the City manager, is to protect the midfielder from unnecessary pressure while allowing him to gradually develop into the player he is capable of becoming.

Bouaddi arrived at the Etihad Stadium after establishing himself as one of the most promising young midfielders in French football. His performances for Lille helped attract attention from several major European clubs before City won the race for his signature.

The Moroccan has also continued to enhance his reputation at international level, adding valuable experience with the Atlas Lions.

Manchester City are believed to have agreed a package worth €95 million, with a further €5 million potentially payable in bonuses. The 18-year-old has also committed his future to the Premier League champions until 2031.

Maresca’s comments demonstrate just how highly City rate their latest young recruit, but the manager knows that potential alone is not enough. Bouaddi will need time to adjust to the demands of Premier League football and gradually earn a bigger role within the team.

For now, City’s priority is to create the right conditions for his growth rather than rush his development.

If Bouaddi continues to combine his technical ability with the maturity that has already impressed Maresca, Manchester City will hope they have secured a player capable of becoming a major figure at the club for years to come.