Transfers
Man City fans hail Bouaddi as Rodri’ heir; Mido warns against it
Manchester City supporters have rushed immediately to label 18‑year‑old Ayyoub Bouaddi the heir to departing midfield anchor Rodri, while Premier League cult hero Mido cautions that such a comparison would be unfair and could hinder the Moroccan teenager’s development in the Moroccan teenager’s development.
Fans hail Bouaddi as Rodri’s heir
Ayyoub Bouaddi officially joined Man City from Lille on Wednesday, and Man City fans believe he can steer the midfield for years to come. The 18‑year‑old became one of the most expensive teenagers in history, a fact highlighted by Getty images. Premier League observers note the excitement surrounding his arrival.
Rodri, the Ballon d’Or‑winning holding midfielder, completed a £65.4m transfer to Barcelona this summer after seven seasons and four Premier League titles at City. His departure left a void that fans quickly linked to Bouaddi. Rodri’s move underscores the scale of the midfield overhaul.
Mido, a Premier League cult hero, warned on talkSPORT Breakfast that “you would be killing him to compare him to Rodri’”. He stressed that Rodri is “the best holding midfielder in the world” and that the boy is only 18. However, Mido praised Bouaddi’s bravery and technique.
According to Mido, Rodri is 6ft 2, strong and covers large spaces, whereas Bouaddi is smaller but possesses great technique and composure under pressure. He added that linking the two would be the worst thing for the boy and for Man City. The former Tottenham striker emphasized the need for patience.
Mido urges patience and distinction
Bouaddi was a breakout star at the World Cup, starting five games for Morocco and attracting worldwide attention. His performances made him the most coveted player in this summer’s transfer window, a coup for City. The Moroccan international’s profile rose sharply after the tournament.
On his arrival, Bouaddi declared, “This is a very special day for me and my family. Manchester City are, for me, the best club in the world… The squad is world‑class and Enzo is a top manager.” He expressed eagerness to play at the Etihad and to help the club chase trophies.
Maresca, who overhauled the midfield after the exits of Rodri and Bernardo Silva, said Bouaddi is fit and “quite calm, he doesn’t look 18”. He added that the club will go slowly with the teenager, noting his youth and foreign background. Bouaddi is available to debut on Friday evening against Crystal Palace.
The contrast between fan optimism and Mido’s caution highlights the delicate balance Manchester City must strike as it integrates its pricey teenage prospect. Time will reveal whether Bouaddi can fulfil the lofty expectations without the pressure of being labelled Rodri’s direct replacement.