Manchester City have signed Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille. The 18-year-old has agreed a five-year deal. The fee is reported at about €100 million, or £86 million.
The move makes Bouaddi the most expensive teenage signing in Premier League history. The previous mark was held by Leny Yoro. He joined Manchester United from Lille in 2024 for £58.9 million.
A New Midfield Era
Bouaddi has arrived as City’s midfield is being reshaped. Rodri has joined Barcelona. Tijjani Reijnders has also left for Al-Qadsiah. Bernardo Silva has departed as well.
The teenager will join Elliot Anderson in the new-look midfield. Anderson arrived from Nottingham Forest for £116 million earlier this summer. City are also reported to have interest in Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández.
Bouaddi’s Rapid Rise
Bouaddi was developed by Lille. He made his senior debut at 16. Since then, 96 appearances have been made for the French club. His rise was accelerated by his performances for Morocco.
At the 2026 World Cup, Bouaddi was used in five of Morocco’s six matches. The team reached the quarter-finals. France then ended their run.
His displays attracted attention across Europe. City eventually secured his signature. Lille confirmed the transfer on Wednesday. The contract will run until 2031.
A Dream Move
Bouaddi said the move was a major moment for him and his family. He also spoke warmly about City’s football.
“Manchester City are, for me, the best club in the world,” he said. “It’s a dream to be here and be able to call myself a City player.”
He said he had followed City for years. Their style had appealed to him. He also acknowledged that more development was needed at his age.
City’s football director Hugo Viana said the midfielder had been watched closely. The club had become convinced that he could succeed in Manchester.
Pressure Comes With The Price
The size of the fee will bring attention. It will also create pressure on a player still only 18. City will expect him to grow into the role over time.
The club began the league season with a 2-1 win over Bournemouth. That followed a 3-0 defeat by Arsenal in the Community Shield. Bouaddi now joins a side undergoing a major midfield rebuild.
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