Maresca weighs bigger Manchester City role for Bouaddi after PSG display

Enzo Maresca is considering giving Ayyoub Bouaddi greater responsibility in midfield after the Morocco international impressed during Manchester City’s Champions League defeat by Paris Saint-Germain.

Bouaddi came on at half-time on Wednesday, with Manchester City 3-0 down, and helped raise the level of their performance despite the Premier League side eventually losing 4-2.

The 19-year-old, who has won 10 caps for Morocco, repeatedly escaped Paris Saint-Germain’s pressing with accurate forward passes. He also recovered important possession and completed his contribution by setting up Erling Haaland for Manchester City’s second goal.

That assist was Bouaddi’s second in six appearances in all competitions since joining the club from Lille.

Speaking before Saturday’s Premier League match against Ipswich, Maresca praised the midfielder’s influence and his ability to improve the team around him.

“Bouaddi is a fantastic player,” said the Manchester City manager, who is now considering whether to increase the teenager’s playing time.

Bouaddi has made a rapid adjustment to life in the north of England, having completed his move from Lille two months ago for a fee of 95 million euros.

His performance against Paris Saint-Germain could lead to a significant next step. Maresca is considering handing him his first Premier League start as Manchester City prepare to host Ipswich on Saturday.

The midfielder’s introduction changed the balance of the Champions League game after Paris Saint-Germain had established a commanding advantage before the interval. His passing helped Manchester City break through the French side’s pressure, while his work without the ball added greater control to the midfield.

Maresca’s comments suggest Bouaddi is moving closer to a more prominent role just two months after his arrival. The manager’s immediate decision will be whether to select him from the start against Ipswich or continue to use him as an impact player from the bench.