World Cup 2026: European clubs chasing Ayyoub Bouaddi excites me – Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi 

Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has praised Ayyoub Bouaddi after the teenager’s eye-catching performance in their 1-1 draw with Brazil in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, as Europe’s elite clubs begin circling the highly rated midfielder.

Bouaddi, who only recently stepped onto the global stage, delivered a mature display beyond his years in a tightly contested Group C opener, helping Morocco secure a valuable point against one of the tournament favourites.

His performance is already fuelling expectations that he could become one of the standout young players of the competition.

Ouahbi, who has overseen Morocco’s push to integrate a new generation of talent, highlighted the midfielder’s experience and composure despite his age, insisting his inclusion was based purely on merit rather than reputation.

“He’s very calm, very composed, and already has a lot of experience,” Ouahbi told AFP, reflecting on the teenager’s rise and previous exposure at top-level football.

The growing attention around Bouaddi has also been amplified by interest from leading European clubs, with scouts expected to track his progress closely throughout the tournament as competition intensifies ahead of the summer transfer window.

The player himself, however, has moved to downplay speculation, stressing that his focus remains firmly on Morocco’s World Cup campaign.

“I’m really happy to know that some clubs are interested in me, but for now I’m only focused on the World Cup, and we will try to give everything to do our best,” he told The Athletic after the draw with Brazil.

Bouaddi’s rapid ascent has been striking. He became the youngest player to feature in a European club competition when he made his debut for Lille in October 2023 at just 16 years and three days old, appearing against KI Klaksvik in the UEFA Europa Conference League.

Now 18, the midfielder has carried that promise onto the international stage, making his World Cup debut against Brazil and immediately showing the confidence and technical control that have made him one of the most talked-about young players in Europe.

With Morocco set to face Scotland in their next Group C fixture, Bouaddi is expected to retain his place as Ouahbi continues to lean on youthful energy in a tournament where the nation is quietly building momentum.