Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi reveals Barcelona legend Andrés Iniesta as childhood idol

Moroccan international Ayyoub Bouaddi has revealed that former Barcelona midfielder Andrés Iniesta was the footballer he admired most as a child, recalling how he regularly watched YouTube compilations of the Spanish legend’s skills.

The 19-year-old midfielder spoke about his childhood inspiration during an appearance on the official Manchester City podcast, reflecting on the players who influenced his development and shaped his love for the game.

“The player I watched? Andrés Iniesta. He was the player I followed the most. I didn’t watch him play that much, but whenever I did, he was incredible,” Bouaddi said.

“I grew up with the generation of YouTube compilations. When I was a child, I watched videos of Iniesta’s skills on YouTube every day,” he added.

Iniesta’s influence on Morocco’s rising star

Iniesta spent most of his playing career at Barcelona, winning nine La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies with the Spanish club.

He also scored Spain’s winning goal against the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final, cementing his place in the country’s football history.

Renowned for his close control, precise passing and ability to escape pressure in tight spaces, Iniesta became an inspiration for young midfielders seeking to develop their technical skills.

Bouaddi previously expressed his admiration for the former Barcelona star in an April 2025 interview with So Foot.

“When I was little, the player who impressed me most was Andrés Iniesta. He understood football so well,” he said.

The Moroccan has also identified Luka Modric among his favourite midfielders, admiring the Croatian’s vision, passing and positional awareness.

From Lille debut to Manchester City

Bouaddi has established himself as one of Europe’s promising young midfielders since making his professional debut for Lille at the age of 16.

His progress earned him a place in Morocco’s senior national team, with the midfielder representing the Atlas Lions at the 2026 World Cup, where they reached the quarter-finals.

His performances attracted the attention of Manchester City, who signed him in August on a five-year contract running until 2031.

Now working under manager Enzo Maresca, Bouaddi is adapting to life in the Premier League while continuing to develop the technical qualities that first inspired him through watching Iniesta as a child.