(foto: Getty Images)
Manchester City are reportedly monitoring Lille’s 17-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi, a rising star likened to Rodri, with Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool also in the mix for his signature.
Manchester City are expected to undergo a significant rebuild in the summer of 2025, with the potential departures of Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan, and other long-serving players. Among the new names linked with a move to the Etihad Stadium is Ayyoub Bouaddi, Lille’s teenage sensation and a player drawing comparisons to Rodri for his deep-lying midfield prowess.
The 17-year-old Frenchman has already established himself as a key figure in Lille’s midfield, making 11 Ligue 1 appearances in the 2024/25 season. His composure, vision, and ability to dictate play have drawn attention from Europe’s elite, including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid, according to Sport Italia.
A potential Rodri successor?
Manchester City’s need for midfield reinforcements is clear as Pep Guardiola begins planning for life after the likes of Bernardo Silva and Mateo Kovacic. Bouaddi’s playing style has drawn comparisons to City’s Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder Rodri. The young Frenchman averages two successful tackles per game in Ligue 1, mirroring Rodri’s defensive contributions in the Premier League.
Georges Tournay, who coached Bouaddi in his youth, praised the player’s technical ability and maturity: "Tall, at ease in midfield, with great technique and an eye for the game. He was destined for success, a bit like Raphael Varane." Bouaddi’s versatility and calmness in high-pressure situations make him an appealing prospect for Guardiola’s system.
Competition for Bouaddi’s signature
While Manchester City are tipped to enter the race, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea are also closely monitoring the teenager’s development. According to Caught Offside, Bouaddi’s price tag is expected to exceed £50 million, making him one of the most sought-after young talents in Europe.
Agent Yvan Le Mee, although not representing Bouaddi, believes the teenager is destined for a move to one of Europe’s biggest clubs: "He’s a 17-year-old phenomenon. Teams like Real Madrid, Manchester City, or Bayern Munich will arrive. I imagine he will leave for figures of 60 million euros and up."
Lille’s next big star
Bouaddi is the latest standout product of Lille’s famed youth academy, following in the footsteps of stars like Eden Hazard. His combination of physicality, tactical intelligence, and technical skill has drawn comparisons to some of football’s finest players, with many suggesting he could become one of Europe’s best midfielders in the coming years.
With City’s succession plan in full swing, Bouaddi could provide a long-term solution in midfield, complementing their existing squad while adding youthful energy and versatility.