Moroccan youngster Ayoub Bouaddi named among Golden Boy 2026 finalists

Moroccan youngster Ayoub Bouaddi has been named among the finalists for the 2026 Golden Boy award, putting the Lille midfielder in contention for one of European football’s most prestigious individual honours for young players.

Bouaddi, who has emerged as one of the promising young talents in European football, is the latest African player to make the final shortlist for the award, which recognises the outstanding performances of players aged 21 or under.

The Morocco international’s inclusion highlights his growing reputation after establishing himself at club level and attracting attention for his technical ability, composure and maturity despite his age.

His nomination also provides another notable moment for Moroccan football, which has increasingly produced young players capable of competing at the highest level of European football.

Bouaddi developed through Lille’s youth system before progressing into the senior side. His performances have seen him become an increasingly important part of the French club’s plans while also earning recognition on the international stage with Morocco.

The Golden Boy award, organised by Italian newspaper Tuttosport, has previously been won by some of the biggest names in modern football, including Lionel Messi, Wayne Rooney, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham.

Bouaddi will now hope to follow in their footsteps as he competes with some of Europe’s most highly rated young players for the 2026 prize.

His presence on the final list further underlines the growing influence of African footballers in Europe’s top leagues, with the continent continuing to produce young talents capable of competing for major individual awards.

For Bouaddi, the nomination represents another significant step in what has been a rapid rise in his young career.

The final Golden Boy winner will be determined from the shortlisted players, with Bouaddi aiming to become another African youngster to claim the prestigious award.