Manchester City completes record Ksh15B deal for Ayyoub Bouaddi
By Joel Masibo, August 26, 2026Manchester City have finalised the signing of highly rated midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille in a deal that could reach £86 million (approximately Ksh15 billion).
The agreement consists of an initial £81.3 million (Ksh14.35 billion) payment, with a further £4.3 million (Ksh758.8 million) available through performance-related bonuses. Bouaddi has put pen to paper on a five-year contract that will keep him at the Etihad Stadium until 2031.
At just 18 years old, the Morocco international becomes the most expensive teenager ever signed by a Premier League club. The transfer eclipses Manchester United’s £58.9 million (Ksh10.39 billion) agreement for Lille defender Leny Yoro in 2024.
Lille have therefore secured the valuation they demanded for Bouaddi, who enhanced his reputation considerably during Morocco’s impressive World Cup campaign this summer.
City strengthen midfield
Bouaddi’s arrival is part of Manchester City’s efforts to reshape their midfield following the departures of Rodri, Bernardo Silva and Tijjani Reijnders.
The teenager said joining Pep Guardiola’s side represents the realisation of a major ambition.
“Manchester City are, for me, the best club in the world,” said Bouaddi. “It’s a dream to be here and be able to call myself a City player.
“I have spent most of my life working hard to become the best player I can be and reach the top of the game. I’ve watched City for many years, and I love their style of play. City always try and play quality football. And they have shown they are winners – this club feels like it’s built to win.
“The squad is world-class and Enzo [Maresca] is a top manager. And I’m really looking forward to playing at the Etihad Stadium, in front of all the fans.
“I have plenty of improving to do. I am only 18. I am happy with the progress I have made so far, but I also know I can improve so much. This is undoubtedly the best place for me to do that.
“This club demands trophies and I will give everything to make sure we are challenging for every title.”
Hugo Viana praises Bouaddi’s potential
Manchester City’s director of football Hugo Viana believes the young midfielder has the qualities required to develop into an elite player.
“Ayyoub’s potential is extremely high – a player equipped with everything a top midfielder needs.
“At just 18, he already has outstanding football intelligence and that will only improve under the guidance of Enzo.
“We have watched him very closely and throughout that process we have become increasingly convinced he is a huge talent who will thrive at City.
“We are really happy he has joined us and our job now is to ensure we provide him with everything he needs to fulfil his potential.”
Bouaddi expected to operate as a No 6
Bouaddi has also provided an indication of where he expects to feature, with his comments suggesting he is being prepared primarily for a defensive midfield role.
“I would say I am a player who plays for the team,” Bouaddi says. “I am a really collective player. I try to put my team-mate in the best position and to give everything every time for the team.
“The most important aspect is to try to balance the team, help your team-mates.
“We know as a No 6 that you’re not going to score 20 goals in a season, well it can happen but it’s quite rare, so you know you have to balance the team and do everything for the team and do your job.”
World Cup performances put Bouaddi in the spotlight
Bouaddi’s stock rose significantly during Morocco’s World Cup run, where he caught the attention of football fans and coaches with his composed displays in midfield.
One of his standout performances came against Brazil in the group stage, where his ability to compete physically and dictate play attracted particular attention.
His emergence on the international stage has accelerated his reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young midfielders, and Manchester City have now moved decisively to secure his services.
The £86m package underlines the club’s belief in Bouaddi’s long-term potential as they look to build the next generation of their midfield.