The transfer is worth up to €100 million, structured as an initial fee of €95 million plus €5 million in potential add-ons. Bouaddi has signed a five-year contract with the Premier League club and will wear the No. 32 shirt at the Etihad Stadium.
Landmark Transfer for Moroccan Football
The move represents a landmark moment for Moroccan football. At just 18 years of age, Bouaddi has surpassed previous transfer records involving Moroccan players, underlining the growing recognition of talent emerging from the North African nation on the European stage.
City have moved decisively to secure the young midfielder as part of their midfield rebuild following the departure of Rodri. Bouaddi is expected to contribute both defensive solidity and progressive qualities in the centre of the pitch as the club reshapes its squad under current management.
Rapid Rise
Bouaddi’s development at Lille has been rapid. He established himself as a first-team regular at a young age and further enhanced his reputation with strong performances for Morocco at international level. His ability to control midfield, break up play and distribute the ball effectively attracted interest from several leading European clubs before City finalised the agreement.
The fee reflects both his current ability and the high expectations surrounding his long-term potential. For Lille, the sale generates a substantial return on their investment in the teenager and stands as one of the highest fees received by a Ligue 1 club in recent years.
New Chapter at City
Bouaddi now begins a new chapter in his career at one of Europe’s leading clubs. The five-year deal provides him with a platform to develop further while competing at the highest level of English and European football. Supporters will look forward to seeing how quickly he adapts to the demands of the Premier League.
The signing also strengthens the presence of Moroccan talent in the Premier League and continues a broader trend of African players securing high-profile moves to elite European clubs. For the Moroccan national team, the transfer adds further quality and experience to a squad that has already made significant strides on the international stage.
Manchester City’s acquisition of Bouaddi sends a clear signal of their intent to invest in young, high-potential players capable of shaping the team’s future. The midfielder will now focus on integrating into the squad and preparing for the challenges that lie ahead in the domestic and continental campaigns.