How transfer target Ayyoub Bouaddi switched nationalities to play alongside Man Utd star at World Cup 2026

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Amid Manchester United’s pursuit of midfielders, Ayyoub Bouaddi remains a name to keep an eye on.

World Cup 2026 is days away and Manchester United will be watching various players who could form part of the team next season.

Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi is among the players to keep an eye on, he has been linked to United since 2025.

Bouaddi has been a France under-21 teammate of Leny Yoro, who United signed from Lille in summer 2024.

But now Bouaddi has chosen a different path – and will never play international football alongside Yoro again.

Instead he will be playing alongside a different Manchester United player.

Ayyoub Bouaddi set for World Cup 2026

Ayyoub Bouaddi has been approved to switch international allegiances from France to Morocco. He was born in France but qualifies for Morocco through his heritage.

With heavy competition in the France squad, 2026 was a tournament too early for Bouaddi, and he has fast-tracked himself into the Morocco set up.

Bouaddi has been selected in Morocco’s 26-man squad and will head to the tournament with Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui.

The switch provides a platform for Bouaddi to showcase his talent on the World stage, although he will have to work hard to get into an already established team.

Bouaddi has already made his Morocco debut, playing 90 minutes in a 5-0 win over Burundi last week and another 90 minutes in a 4-0 victory over Madagascar on June 2.

He partnered former Manchester United loanee Sofyan Amrabat in midfield.

How would YOU rate Noussair Mazraoui’s 2025/26 season?

He ends the season with 20 appearances, 0 goals and assists…

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Bouaddi among names United are tracking

Manchester United are looking for proven options in midfield, but Bouaddi’s potential makes him an exciting option.

The 18-year-old has already played 96 first team games for Lille after making his debut for the club at 16.

TotalFootballAnalysis describe Bouaddi as “more of a midfield enforcer than a final-third threat.”

Strong performances at World Cup 2026 can further solidify Bouaddi’s credentials, but a deal will not be easy, after Lille recently extended his contract to 2029.