Manchester City have secured the signing of Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille in a deal worth 100 million euros, or £85.6 million ($117 million). The five-year agreement, confirmed by the French club on Wednesday, establishes the 18-year-old as the most expensive teenager in Premier League history. This fee eclipses the £58.9 million Manchester United paid for Leny Yoro, who was also acquired from Lille in 2024.
The move comes as part of a significant midfield overhaul at the Etihad Stadium. City sought reinforcements following the departures of captain Rodri to Barcelona and Tijjani Reijnders to Al-Qadsiah, with Nico Gonzalez also expected to exit. Bouaddi joins fellow new arrival Elliot Anderson, whose £116 million ($154 million) transfer from Nottingham Forest was finalized in June. The club also maintains interest in Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, though a recent deadline for a £120 million bid for the Argentine passed without an agreement.
Bouaddi, who made 96 appearances for Lille after debuting at 16, gained international prominence as a standout performer during Morocco’s run to the World Cup quarter-finals. Director of football Hugo Viana praised the acquisition, stating that the club had monitored the youngster closely and remained convinced of his potential to thrive in Manchester.
Reflecting on his move, Bouaddi described the transfer as a special moment for his family. He lauded Manchester City as the best club in the world, noting that he has long admired their style of play and winning culture. “I have plenty of improving to do, I am only 18,” the midfielder said. “This club demands trophies and I will give everything to make sure we are challenging for every title.”
Manager Enzo Maresca, who took charge following Pep Guardiola’s departure, has prioritized central midfield strengthening this summer. The team is currently adjusting to the new setup, having suffered a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in the Community Shield before opening their Premier League campaign with a 2-1 victory over Bournemouth on Sunday. The report also notes that helping Morocco reach the quarter-finals before they were beaten by France, the 18-year-old rising star was one of the standout players at the recent World Cup. The report also notes that it’s a dream to be here and be able to call myself a City player. The report also notes that i have spent most of my life working hard to become the best player I can be and reach the top of the game. The report also notes that city always try and play quality football and they have shown they are winners – this club feels like it’s built to win. The report also notes that but I also know I can improve so much, i am happy with the progress I have made so far.
