Manchester United fans watching the World Cup would have seen Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi shine against Brazil.
The 1-1 draw between Morocco and Brazil in the 2026 World Cup included Manchester United stars Matheus Cunha and Noussair Mazraoui.
But it was Ayyoub Bouaddi who was the main talking point after the full-time whistle, as the 18-year-old was mightily impressive up against a Brazil midfield led by former United star Casemiro.
Considering United are rebuilding their midfield this summer, Bouaddi should be a target for Ineos, and his style of play looks perfectly suited to thrive under Michael Carrick.
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What Man Utd fans need to know about Ayyoub Bouaddi
It may seem as though interest in Bouaddi has appeared overnight because of his impressive cameo against Brazil, but that is not the case.
Actually, United have been interested in Bouaddi for over a year, with the Lille midfielder identified as an exciting young target that aligns with Ineos’ transfer strategy.
Before the World Cup had even started, United ramped up interest in Bouaddi with Sir Alex Ferguson tipped to play a role in convincing the teenage star to make a move to Old Trafford.
The 18-year-old is widely considered as one of the most exciting prospects in Europe, and his breakthrough at the World Cup was anticipated.
According to reports in France, Bouaddi will cost more than £72m as Lille want to break their transfer record.
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Ayyoub Bouaddi’s style of play
Against Brazil, Bouaddi played as a right-sided central midfielder in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
That is not only the same formation that United play under Michael Carrick, but also the exact role that the Red Devils need to strengthen this season.
TotalFootballAnalysis points out that Bouaddi’s dribbling is central to his style of play. Described as “elegant gliding” with the ball, the teenager has scarily good technical ability.
But Bouaddi also has the physicality to thrive in the Premier League. Standing at 6ft 1in, he can compete aerially, and his duelling is elite.
Against other midfielders in top European leagues, he ranks in the 94th percentile for defensive duels and defensive duels won per 90 minutes.
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Bouaddi’s attacking output is probably the weakest part of his game, ranking in the bottom four percent of midfielders for shots per 90 minutes and goal contributions.
As a replacement for Casemiro, Bouaddi is perfect. Young but experienced. Mobile and defensively sound.
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