Enzo Maresca warns against putting pressure on Moroccan teenager Bouaddi

Manchester City head coach Enzo Maresca has urged patience with Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, warning that the teenager must be given time to adapt to the Premier League without facing excessive pressure.

The 19-year-old made his first Premier League start in City’s 3-2 victory over Ipswich Town on Saturday, having previously made three appearances as a substitute.

Maresca praised Bouaddi’s ability but stressed the importance of managing his development carefully as he adjusts to English football after arriving from French club Lille during the summer transfer window.

“I think every manager is always looking to find minutes and space for good players. Ayyoub is a very good player, but he is still very young and has come from France,” Maresca said.

“We also need to help him and not put him under pressure in every game, then the next game, and so on. He needs some time to develop and adapt. I think he is doing well,” he added.

Bouaddi impresses on first Premier League start

Bouaddi produced a solid performance against Ipswich, registering 92 touches, winning seven ground duels and completing seven line-breaking passes, according to Manchester City’s official statistics.

The Moroccan midfielder also expressed his delight at being named in the starting line-up, while acknowledging that adapting to a new competition is part of his development.

“Of course, I was really happy to start. It’s football; I really like to play the game. I want to play every game. But I know it’s part of the process,” Bouaddi told the club’s official website.

His first league start represents a step forward as he continues to establish himself at Manchester City, although Maresca has made clear that the youngster will need time to settle into his new surroundings.

Manchester City maintain perfect Premier League record

City’s victory over Ipswich extended their winning start to the Premier League season to seven matches, keeping them perfect after the opening seven games.

Phil Foden opened the scoring in the 19th minute before Daizen Maeda equalised for Ipswich two minutes later.

Erling Haaland restored City’s lead in the 34th minute and scored again in the 69th minute. A late penalty from Zian Flemming reduced the deficit for the visitors, but City held on to secure the win.

The result also marked a historic milestone for Maresca, who became the first manager in Premier League history to win his opening seven matches in charge of a club.