Bouaddi’s first Manchester City start offers early return on reported £86m fee
The 18-year-old midfielder completed 54 of 55 passes as Manchester City defeated Porto 2-0 in the Champions League.
Ayyoub Bouaddi made a composed first start for Manchester City in a 2-0 Champions League victory over Porto, providing an early indication of why the club pursued the 18-year-old midfielder.
Bouaddi completed 54 of 55 passes, won possession seven times, made four dribbles and contested 13 duels. He also became City’s fourth-youngest player to start a Champions League match.
The midfielder joined from Lille for a reported £86 million, a fee that would make him the most expensive teenager in Premier League history. He had previously made two substitute appearances for City.
His performance adds an early midfield option following Rodri’s departure, although one match does not establish whether Bouaddi can assume that role over the longer term. Bouaddi has now made 10 Champions League appearances, having previously attracted attention during Lille’s win over Real Madrid.
Erling Haaland scored both of City’s goals and praised Bouaddi’s recent training form, calling him “a gem”. Manager Enzo Maresca also highlighted the teenager’s maturity and said his performance justified the club’s effort to sign him.
