Moroccan international midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has officially joined Manchester City from Lille, signing a contract that will keep him at the Premier League club until 2031.
The transfer is reportedly worth around €100 million ($116 million), according to Lille president Olivier Létang, making it a landmark deal for both the player and French football.
A Record-Breaking Transfer
At just 18 years old, Bouaddi has completed one of the biggest moves of his young career.
The transfer is reportedly the most expensive departure from Ligue 1 to a foreign club, underlining the extraordinary rise of the Moroccan midfielder after a standout season with Lille.
Manchester City moved decisively to secure one of Europe's most highly rated young midfielders, with Bouaddi's technical quality, composure and tactical intelligence making him an ideal fit for the club's long-term project.
From Lille to Manchester
Bouaddi leaves Lille after establishing himself as one of the most exciting young talents in French football.
His performances at club level earned him international recognition with Morocco and ultimately a place in the Atlas Lions' 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.
The midfielder featured in five matches during Morocco's World Cup campaign, including the quarter-final against France, where the Atlas Lions' journey ended with a 2-0 defeat.
A New Chapter Begins
Now, Bouaddi will take the next step in his development in the Premier League, joining a Manchester City side that has established itself among Europe's elite.
The move represents another major milestone for Moroccan football and another opportunity for one of the country's brightest young talents to shine on the biggest stage.
From Lille to Manchester City, Ayyoub Bouaddi's remarkable rise has entered a new chapter, and at just 18, the story may only be beginning.