Manchester City sign Morocco teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi on five-year contract

Manchester City have completed the signing of Morocco international Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, with the 18-year-old agreeing a contract that will keep him at the Etihad Stadium until 2031.

Bouaddi becomes City’s sixth signing of the summer, following Elliot Anderson, Pierce Charles, Jeremy Monga, Mathys Detourbet and Geronimo Rulli. He arrives in Manchester regarded as one of the most promising young players in world football after making 96 appearances for Lille and winning eight international caps.

The midfielder made his senior debut for the Ligue 1 club in the UEFA Conference League just three days after his 16th birthday. He subsequently became an established member of Lille’s first team during the next two seasons.

Bouaddi initially represented France at youth and Under-21 level before choosing to play for Morocco, the country of his parents. He impressed for the Atlas Lions at the FIFA World Cup 2026 and attracted considerable interest from leading clubs.

Speaking after completing his move, Bouaddi said: “This is a very special day for me and my family. Manchester City are, for me, the best Club in the world. It’s a dream to be here and be able to call myself a City player. I have spent most of my life working hard to become the best player I can be and reach the top of the game,’

“I’ve watched City for many years, and I love their style of play. City always try to play quality football. And they have shown they are winners – this Club feels like it’s built to win. The squad is world-class, and Enzo is a top manager. And I’m really looking forward to playing at the Etihad Stadium, in front of all the fan.

“I have plenty of improving to do. I am only 18. I am happy with the progress I have made so far, but I also know I can improve so much. This is undoubtedly the best place for me to do that. This Club demands trophies, and I will give everything to make sure we are challenging for every title,” he added.

Manchester City director of football Hugo Viana said Bouaddi possessed the qualities required to develop into a top midfielder.

“Ayyoub’s potential is extremely high a player equipped with everything a top midfielder needs. At just 18, he already has outstanding football intelligence, and it will only improve under Enzo’s guidance.

“We have watched him very, very closely and throughout that process we have become increasingly convinced he is a huge talent who will thrive at City. We are really happy he has joined us and our job now is to ensure we provide him with everything he needs to fulfil his potential.”

Bouaddi’s performances during Morocco’s standout World Cup campaign made him one of the most sought-after young players in Europe. His move also gives Manchester City another highly rated option as they build their squad for the new season.

The teenager could make his debut on Friday, when Manchester City host Crystal Palace in their second Premier League 2026-27 fixture.