Manchester City sign Bouadi from Lille

Manchester City have signed Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille on a five-year deal. The Premier League club confirmed the move on 26 August 2026, posting images of the 18-year-old signing on the dotted line.

Manchester City did not disclose the fee, although Reuters, citing British media, reported it was EUR 86 million.

Bouaddi joined Lille’s first team in 2023, aged 16, becoming the club’s youngest senior player. He went on to make 96 appearances for the French side, including 30 in Ligue 1 last season with Lille finishing third.

He also caught the eye in Europe during Lille’s Champions League win over Real Madrid in 2024.

Although born in France to Moroccan parents, Bouaddi came through the French youth system before choosing Morocco for his senior international career.

He made his senior debut for the Atlas Lions last May and was part of their 2026 World Cup squad, starting five of their six matches as they reached the quarter-finals.

Known for his ability to dictate the tempo, Bouaddi can maintain possession under pressure and play the ball forward from midfield.

His move to Manchester City comes as the club reshapes its midfield following the departures of Rodri, Bernardo Silva and Tijani Reijnders. City also signed England midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest last month for a reported £116 million.

In his first interview since the signing, Bouaddi said:

It’s a dream come true to join this club and to be able to call myself a City player.

For me, Manchester City is the best club in the world.

City will look to Bouaddi to make his mark at the club and play a big part in what comes next.

Featured image via Manchester city / the Canary

By Alaa Shamali

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