World Cup: Who is Ayyoub Bouaddi, the French teenager playing for Morocco? | World Cup 2026 News
Ayyoub Bouaddi: Morocco’s Rising Star Shines in World Cup Debut
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Until recently, 18-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi, a promising footballer from France, anticipated watching this year’s FIFA World Cup like most teens—surrounded by friends and family, likely cheering for Les Bleus, the French national team he had long aspired to join. Having ascended through the French youth ranks, Bouaddi had been earmarked as a future talent.
However, Bouaddi recently made headlines by becoming the youngest player to reach 50 appearances in France’s top-tier league, Ligue 1. This achievement set the stage for a surprising twist in his career.
Despite his evident skills, France head coach Didier Deschamps chose to keep the midfielder in the youth ranks, where he had captained the Under-21 team as of March. Meanwhile, Morocco seized the opportunity, and Bouaddi’s inclusion in their World Cup squad has sparked significant controversy in French football.
Former Paris Saint-Germain and Monaco midfielder Jérôme Rothen expressed his disappointment at Deschamps’s decision while analyzing Morocco’s performance against Brazil in their opening World Cup match on June 13. Bouaddi showcased his talent despite the overwhelming atmosphere created by Brazil’s fervent fan base, demonstrating both mental and physical resilience.
“When I hear the words of coach Didier Deschamps, it shocks me,” Rothen said on French sports channel RMC Sport. “We didn’t need to wait for him to prove himself against Brazil to recognize his potential.”
Bouaddi’s early success has been a consistent theme, with a notable performance in 2024 that helped Lille secure a Champions League victory over Real Madrid. That match saw him up against established French internationals Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Experts have subsequently praised Bouaddi’s ability to excel under pressure. Raised in a sport-oriented environment, he credits his father, Hassan Bouaddi, a former handball player and current banking director, for fostering his athletic pursuits alongside a commitment to education. Bouaddi completed the French Baccalaureate a year early and is now pursuing a degree in mathematics.
His versatility is apparent on the pitch; while holding midfielders traditionally focus on defensive duties, Bouaddi excels in initiating attacks as well. Against Brazil, he completed 91% of his passes, including all 16 made in the attacking third. His two-way play proved so effective that veteran player Casemiro had to be substituted at halftime.
Bouaddi’s omission from the French squad has raised questions about Deschamps’s strategy, especially given the abundance of attacking talent in the French ranks.
A notable image of a 10-year-old Bouaddi in the stands during the 2018 World Cup, proudly wearing a Moroccan jersey, has resurfaced on social media following his debut match for Morocco. His decision to represent Morocco was not straightforward, as the national team’s manager, Mohamed Ouahbi, revealed extensive discussions took place to secure his commitment, which was finalized with FIFA’s approval in May.
By appointing Ouahbi and promoting a new style of play, the Moroccan Football Federation signaled a shift from the defensive tactics employed by former coach Walid Regragui. As a result, Bouaddi has emerged as a leading figure in Morocco’s new generation.
Fans have quickly taken notice, with excitement surrounding his potential, especially after his breakthrough performance against Brazil. “He is amazing. What a talent and a professional at 18 years of age,” remarked Mohammed, a Moroccan supporter from Barcelona.
Bouaddi’s club, Lille, recently extended his contract, setting expectations high for any potential suitors, with reports suggesting a starting bid of €100 million ($114 million) if interest arises. Football commentator Khalil Jadallah compared Bouaddi’s talent to that of Sergio Busquets, highlighting his all-around abilities.
As Morocco prepares for upcoming matches against Scotland and Haiti, supporters are eager to see how Bouaddi will continue to perform on the world stage. With each display, he may help lead Morocco on an extraordinary journey through this World Cup.
