Ayyoub Bouaddi, a talented 17-year-old Franco-Moroccan footballer, has emerged as a key player for Lille, impressing fans with his skill and composure. He made headlines during a match against Real Madrid and became the youngest player to compete in a European Cup match. Bouaddi shines in midfield, boasting impressive passing and tackling statistics while also excelling academically, pursuing mathematics. His intelligence on the pitch and work ethic have led coaches to recognize him as a promising star in football.
Introducing Ayyoub Bouaddi: A Rising Star in Football
On October 2, during an exciting match between Lille and Real Madrid, Europe was introduced to a new sensation. Ayyoub Bouaddi, undeterred by the stature of his opponent, delivered an outstanding performance in midfield, aiding his team in achieving a remarkable result against the reigning European champions. He further showcased his talent on a grander stage against Borussia Dortmund on March 4, where the encounter ended in a 1-1 draw during the first leg of the Champions League round of 16.
A Young Talent with Impressive Skill
At just 17 years old, the Franco-Moroccan athlete continues to impress fans and critics alike with his composure and reliability on the pitch. His teammate, Bafodé Diakité, noted, “He exhibits a level of calm similar to that of Benjamin André, despite their age difference. His maturity is remarkable, and we’re grateful to have him on our side.” Bouaddi is set to play a pivotal role for Lille once more as they prepare for the second leg against Borussia Dortmund on March 12.
Last season, he made history by becoming the youngest player ever to participate in a European Cup match at the age of 16 years and 3 days, during a game against the Faroe Islands’ Klaksvik in the Europa Conference League. Hailing from Senlis, Bouaddi has steadily become a key starter in Bruno Genesio’s 4-3-3 formation. Despite facing some physical challenges, he has already racked up 31 appearances and over 1,650 minutes of play this season.
“He has shown significant improvement,” said the Dogues’ coach. “We often refer to a quote from Aimé Jacquet regarding Robert Pirès: he needed to enhance his gameplay, and he is gradually doing just that.” Bruno Genesio praised Bouaddi’s technical composure compared to his earlier performances, but also acknowledged that there are still areas for growth.
Bouaddi is a cerebral player with a remarkable work ethic. Standing tall at 1.86 meters and weighing 72 kilograms, he excels in his off-the-ball efforts and movement efficiency. His technical reliability in passing is notable; according to statistics, he boasts a successful pass rate that surpasses 91% of players in his position and completes more dribbles per 90 minutes than 85% of his peers. Additionally, he ranks in the 90th percentile for both attempted and successful tackles.
Currently representing the French U21 team, Bouaddi is recognized by his coaches as a diligent player, though he still has room to improve in areas like interceptions and physical duels.
What sets Ayyoub Bouaddi apart is his exceptional intelligence on the field. He possesses an innate ability to read the game and anticipate plays ahead of others. “His mind is well-structured,” Bruno Genesio remarked. Bouaddi’s precocity extends beyond football; after skipping fifth grade, he earned a scientific baccalaureate with honors a year early and is now pursuing a degree in mathematics through distance learning. “Studying alongside football keeps my mind sharp,” he explained, noting that “math helps me grasp the game more quickly, especially in tactical aspects.”
His exceptional abilities have become apparent early on. “He has consistently shown superior talent because his intelligence is undeniable. He instinctively knows where to position himself and how to play while maintaining his composure and humility. He is truly gifted,” emphasized Malek Kismoune, a manager at AFC Creil, where Bouaddi honed his skills before joining LOSC.
“He has always been strong in every aspect, both in football and beyond. He was destined to succeed early and reach an elite level,” added Sofiane Khair, the youth coordinator at AFC Creil. As Bouaddi prepares for this week’s match, it’s clear that a very high level of performance is expected from this rising star.