Ayyoub Bouaddi could make Manchester City debut against Crystal Palace

Ayyoub Bouaddi could make his Manchester City debut against Crystal Palace, with Enzo Maresca strongly hinting that the 100 million euro signing is ready to feature.

The 18-year-old midfielder only arrived from Lille this week, but City believe he has adapted quickly enough to be included in the squad.

Maresca struck an optimistic tone in his pre-match comments, saying Bouaddi is already fit and available despite the short turnaround after his move from France. He also stressed that the teenager’s maturity has impressed him, noting that he does not behave like a player of his age and already carries himself with unusual composure.

City are still expected to ease him in carefully. A starting place appears unlikely this early, especially in a tricky Premier League trip, but an appearance from the bench now looks very possible. That would give supporters their first glimpse of one of the summer’s biggest transfers.

Bouaddi’s record-breaking move from Lille has created huge excitement, and Maresca’s remarks suggest the wait for his first minutes in sky blue may be very short. Crystal Palace now face the possibility of dealing with a fresh attacking and creative threat much sooner than expected.