Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that new signing Ayyoub Bouaddi is fit and ready to be included in the squad, but has warned that the young midfielder will need time to adjust to his new surroundings.
The 18-year-old Moroccan joined City from French club Lille in a deal worth up to €100 million. The transfer makes Bouaddi one of the most expensive teenagers in football.
Speaking ahead of City’s Premier League meeting with Crystal Palace today, Maresca said Bouaddi has maintained his fitness and could be involved in the game.
“He’s ready, he was working with his former club so he is fit. We’ll see how long he needs in terms of adaptation, but he’s ready to go,” Maresca said.
The Italian manager was also impressed by the youngster’s calm personality and maturity, but stressed that City must avoid putting too much pressure on him.
“He’s quite calm. He doesn’t look 18, he looks mature, which is important,” Maresca said.
However, he added that Bouaddi’s age and move from France to England mean the club must give him enough time to settle.
“In this case we need to go slowly, because he’s very young. He comes from a different country, he needs adaptation. No rush for him. He’s going to help us now and, in the future,” he added.
Bouaddi arrives at City after developing through Lille’s academy and making his senior debut at a very young age.
He also represented Morocco at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, further raising his profile before his move to England. Lille described him as an exceptionally mature player when confirming his transfer.
His arrival is part of City’s rebuilding of their midfield following the departure of several key players.
