Bouaddi impresses on first start - have Man City found 'a gem'?

Ayyoub Bouaddi, aged 18 years and 341 days, made his first Champions League start for Manchester City, becoming the club’s fourth‑youngest player to do so. Initially, doubts were raised about the scale of interest in a player who could be exposed in a high‑pressure transfer market, but Bouaddi settled in immediately and demonstrated why he will be a valuable asset this season. "He is precise good," said manager Enzo Maresca. "Against Coventry, he mislaid 2 balls and aft that he was wrong our container and calm. Other players whitethorn have panicked but at 18, he is simply a fantastic player." "Tonight, he was precise good. He speaks French, English, Spanish perfect. He is antithetic in however mature he is. This is why the nine has made the effort for him to be with us." BBC Sport reported City’s interest in Bouaddi in June, and contrary to earlier speculation, sources confirmed that signing him and then loaning him back to Lille for a season was never on the agenda. The performance in Portugal highlighted why those in power at City believe he possesses every attribute to "develop into a satellite people talent," and he clearly enjoys competing on the biggest stage. Two years earlier, Bouaddi earned a lasting ovation from Lille supporters after helping his side to a shock victory over holders Real Madrid; travelling City fans were said to have reacted similarly in Portugal on Tuesday evening. Statistically, Bouaddi completed 54 of his 55 passes, led all players from both sides in dribbles (4), possessions won (7) and duels contested (13). "He did a truly bully game," said Haaland. "The past mates of weeks in training, he has been amazing. I think we have got a gem there, to be honest." Although it was only Bouaddi’s 10th appearance in the competition, the Norwegian forward sent a playful yet pointed remark to his teammate about needing to be flawless throughout the match. The striker added: "I think he should've played maine done in the 2nd fractional so I was a spot angry." "But he played a bully game... but for that pass."