‘It’s like playing Messi in goal’ – Mohamed Aboutrika tears into Maresca over Ayyoub Bouaddi’s role at Man City

Egyptian football legend Mohamed Aboutrika has taken aim at Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca over his handling of Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, insisting the teenager is being played in the wrong position at the Etihad Stadium.

Aboutrika believes Maresca is failing to get the best out of the 19-year-old by deploying him in advanced midfield roles rather than allowing him to operate in his natural defensive midfield position.

His criticism follows City’s disappointing 1-0 home defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday in the ninth round of Premier League fixtures.

Bouaddi, who made his fifth start of the season across all competitions, lasted just 55 minutes before being substituted as City struggled to find a breakthrough.

The Morocco international appeared frustrated with his responsibilities on the pitch, while Aboutrika questioned the tactical decision to move the youngster away from the position where he believes his qualities are most effective.

Aboutrika compares Maresca’s decision to playing Messi in goal

The former Egypt international, a two-time Africa Cup of Nations winner in 2006 and 2008, was particularly critical of Maresca’s decision to use Bouaddi as either a number eight or number 10.

Speaking as a pundit for beIN Sports MENA, Aboutrika argued that the midfielder’s strengths are better suited to a deeper role, where he can influence City’s build-up play and provide defensive protection.

‘Playing Ayyoub Bouaddi as a number eight or number 10 is like playing Messi in goal,’ Aboutrika said.

‘His position is number six. Why change his positioning?’

The Egyptian believes the decision to push Bouaddi further forward is limiting his influence and preventing him from showcasing the qualities that have made him one of Morocco’s exciting young midfield prospects.

Bouaddi, who is a huge admirer of Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta, is known for his ability to dictate play and contribute to his team’s progression from deeper positions.

Bouaddi yet to justify expectations at Manchester City

Aboutrika also believes Manchester City are not taking full advantage of the youngster’s qualities, particularly his ball-winning ability, distribution and capacity to carry possession into attacking areas.

Those attributes reportedly caught attention during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, raising expectations surrounding his contribution at club level.

However, the midfielder has yet to deliver the level of influence anticipated following his arrival in England.

Bouaddi joined City last summer in a deal that initially made him the most expensive African player in football history, before Ivory Coast forward Yan Diomande surpassed that record with his move to Real Madrid.

Despite the significant investment and expectations surrounding his arrival, the Moroccan has managed just two assists in nine appearances across all competitions.

His limited output has placed greater attention on Maresca’s tactical decisions, particularly the position in which he deploys the teenager.

Saturday’s defeat to Brighton has further intensified scrutiny on City’s performances, with Bouaddi’s substitution providing another talking point surrounding the manager’s tactical approach.