Tribal Football

Ayyoub Bouaddi addresses Lille future after outstanding World Cup display

Ayyoub Bouaddi in action for Morocco
Ayyoub Bouaddi in action for MoroccoReuters/Caean Couto

A star was unearthed on the World Cup stage as Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi helped Morocco earn a 1-1 draw against Brazil on Saturday.

The 18-year-old produced a remarkable performance on a huge stage, bossing proceedings with his exceptional passing range and incredible press resistance. 

Advertisement
Advertisement

Bouaddi was accurate with 60 of his 66 passes, completed three dribbles and won nine of his 14 ground duels, as those watching from inside the stadium and from afar were in awe of his talents. 

Arsenal already share that same feeling towards the teenager, and reports indicate that the Gunners are ready to step up their pursuit of the midfield general. 

Lille's asking price is said to be around €70 million, but that was before his mouth-watering performance against Brazil, so it remains to be seen whether his value increases. 

A world-class display is only going to generate more interest, though Bouaddi isn't letting that distract him from going as far as possible with Morocco at the World Cup

"I’m really happy to know that some clubs are interested in me, but for now I’m only focused on the WC, and we will try to give everything to do our best," Bouaddi said after the game. 

The teenage sensation will surely impress even more in upcoming games against Haiti and Scotland, two lower-ranked opponents.