Bouaddi impresses the Citizens: Enzo Maresca's XXL praise

The Moroccan defensive midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi made his first steps with Manchester City in the Champions League, delivering a decisive pass to Erling Haaland during the clash against Paris Saint‑Germain. Enzo Maresca, the Citizens' coach, described the performance as “fantastic”, highlighting the immediate impact of the young player.

A decisive introduction against Paris Saint‑Germain

Last Wednesday, the Citizens were enduring the Parisian domination (2‑4) when Enzo Maresca replaced Rayan Cherki with Bouaddi. The Senlis native then delivered the assist that allowed Haaland to score, briefly reversing the match’s momentum.

Enzo Maresca's praise

During a press conference this Friday, Maresca praised the energy injected by Bouaddi and his influence on his teammates' performance. “He is a fantastic player. When he is on the pitch, he also enables his teammates to be stronger,” said the Manchester coach.

The Italian coach also recalled that Bouaddi arrived at Manchester City last summer for a fee estimated at one hundred million euros, recruited from LOSC. Despite his assist, the youngster saw his team lose to the defending European champion.

This debut hints at a bright future for Bouaddi in the Eastlands, where he could become a pillar of the Citizens' midfield. Supporters now await to see how he will continue to influence Champions League fixtures.