Manchester City Secures Lille Midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi in Record Transfer
Manchester City Signs Moroccan Midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille
Manchester City has finalized a deal to bring in the promising Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, marking a major step in rebuilding their midfield. The 18-year-old is expected to take over as the long-term replacement for Rodri, following the latter's move to Barcelona.
Record-Breaking Transfer Fee
The agreement reportedly includes an initial fee of €95 million, with an additional €5 million in potential add-ons, making it the highest transfer fee ever paid by Lille. This surpasses the previous record of €80 million that Arsenal paid for Nicolas Pepe in 2019. Bouaddi has signed a contract extending until 2031, with an option for the club to extend it for one more year.
A Strategic Priority for City
The deal follows the sale of Rodri to Barcelona for €60 million. Enzo Maresca, City’s assistant coach, confirmed that finding a player with Rodri’s qualities was a top priority, leading them to pursue Bouaddi aggressively this summer.
Early Promise and International Impact
Bouaddi made history as Lille’s youngest-ever player, debuting at just 16 years and three days old during a Conference League match in September 2023. He came through Lille’s academy system and impressed with his maturity on the field.
His profile grew considerably after his standout performances at the 2026 World Cup, where he was a key figure in Morocco’s midfield. Bouaddi started five out of six matches as Morocco reached the quarterfinals. His ability to control the game and maintain composure under pressure was evident, especially in the 1-1 draw against Brazil where he recorded the most touches on the pitch.
Switching National Allegiance
Previously representing France at youth levels from U16 to U21, Bouaddi switched his international allegiance to Morocco in May 2026. This decision quickly paid off, establishing him as a vital part of the Moroccan national team.
Ready for Premier League Challenges
Despite his young age, Bouaddi has substantial experience. In his third full season at senior level, he played 42 games across all competitions last term, helping Lille finish third in Ligue 1 and secure Champions League qualification.
Manchester City is undergoing a significant squad refresh, and Bouaddi’s arrival provides a clear solution for their defensive midfield needs as they look to build for the future.
- Transfer fee: €95 million plus €5 million add-ons
- Contract length: Until summer 2031, with a club option for an extra year
- Previous club: Lille
- Age: 18 years old
- International career: Switched from France youth teams to Morocco senior team in May 2026
- Ligue 1 appearances last season: 42 in all competitions
- Ligue 1 finish with Lille: Third place
- World Cup 2026: Started 5 of 6 matches, helped Morocco reach quarterfinals
