Ayyoub Bouaddi made his first official appearance for Manchester City on Friday night. The 18-year-old Moroccan midfielder came on in the 82nd minute during the 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace, immediately showing several promising moments during his brief cameo.
The moment Ayyoub Bouaddi had been looking forward to arrived on Friday evening at Selhurst Park. Just two days after Manchester City officially announced his arrival from Lille, the Moroccan international made his Premier League debut.
With a comfortable 3-1 lead, manager Enzo Maresca decided to give his new midfielder some minutes in the closing stages. Bouaddi entered the pitch in the 82nd minute as a replacement for Elliot Anderson.
For the young Moroccan, it marked his first official appearance in a Manchester City shirt. The circumstances were ideal as well, with City in complete control of the match and ultimately securing a 4-1 win.
Directly Involved in Play
Although Bouaddi did not have enough time during his short substitute appearance to leave a massive stamp on the game, he made a calm and confident impression.
The midfielder immediately sought out combinations and frequently asked for the ball to support the buildup from the back. In the closing moments, he was also given the space to showcase his attacking qualities.
In the 93rd minute, Bouaddi played a well-timed pass into space, sending Antoine Semenyo down the left flank. The Ghanaian's resulting cross was blocked, marking one of Bouaddi's final notable actions before the final whistle.
While his maiden appearance lasted only a few minutes, the way he adapted to the pace of the game was particularly striking. The 18-year-old midfielder did not look overawed by his first minutes in the Premier League.
City Wins Convincingly
Meanwhile, Manchester City enjoyed an excellent evening in London. Rayan Cherki was instrumental once again with two goals, while Erling Haaland also found the net twice.
Crystal Palace managed to pull one back after the break to make it 2-1, but City quickly restored order. Cherki scored to make it 3-1, before Haaland wrapped up the final 4-1 scoreline in the 84th minute.
With six points from their opening two league matches, Maresca's side has made a stellar start to the new Premier League season.
First Step at Manchester City
For Bouaddi, this debut marks the beginning of a new chapter. The Moroccan midfielder completed his move from Lille to Manchester City this week for a fee that could rise to €100 million, signing a contract until 2031.
Consequently, expectations surrounding the teenager are high. Bouaddi made his senior debut for Lille at just 16 years of age and quickly grew into a key midfielder. He also impressed with Morocco during the 2026 World Cup, prompting Manchester City to break the bank for his signature.
Maresca wasted no time by naming Bouaddi in the matchday squad almost immediately after his transfer. The manager emphasized beforehand that the young midfielder was ready to play, while noting that patience will still be required given his age and the fact that he is new to the Premier League.
His first minutes are now in the books. Ayyoub Bouaddi has taken his initial step at Manchester City, and the coming weeks will reveal how quickly the 18-year-old Moroccan can develop into a regular fixture in the English powerhouse's midfield.