Ayyoub Bouaddi, at 18 years and 341 days, became the fourth-youngest player to start a Champions League match for Manchester City. His debut performance has led to questions about the fee paid for the midfielder, but he has quickly showcased his potential value to the team.
Manager Enzo Maresca described Bouaddi as a "fantastic player," noting his composure even after errors. "He is very good," Maresca said. "Against Coventry, he lost two balls and after that he was inside our box and calm. Other players may have panicked but at 18, he is a fantastic player. Tonight, he was very good. He speaks French, English, Spanish perfect. He is different in how mature he is. This is why the club has made the effort for him to be with us."
Manchester City's interest in Bouaddi was reported in June. Reports suggesting he would be loaned back to Lille for a season were not accurate, according to sources. The club believes Bouaddi possesses the attributes to "develop into a world class talent" and he demonstrated this on the biggest stage.
Two years prior, Bouaddi received a standing ovation from Lille supporters for his role in a victory against Real Madrid. His performance in Portugal drew similar acclaim from traveling City fans. Bouaddi completed 54 of his 55 passes, led both sides in dribbles with four, won possession seven times, and contested 13 duels.
Teammate Erling Haaland praised Bouaddi's performance, stating, "The last couple of weeks in training, he has been amazing. I think we have got a gem there, to be honest." Haaland also playfully chided Bouaddi for not passing to him in the second half, adding, "But he played a good game... except for that pass."