Six‑hundred‑million gamble sees Haaland hail City’s new midfield jewel

Erling Haaland lauded 18‑year‑old Ayyoub Bouaddi after Manchester City’s 2‑0 Champions League win over Porto, with the Melhores moments clip showcasing the striker’s praise for the youngster’s impact in a midfield reshaped by Rodri’s €100‑million move to Barcelona and underlined by a R$600‑million investment. The Norwegian forward said the performance confirmed the club’s belief in the Moroccan midfielder’s potential.

After the match, Haaland told reporters he had already alerted City president Khaldoon Al Mubarak to Bouaddi’s training displays. “I think he played a very, very good game. I’ve just told the president that he has been incredible in training and everything. I think we have a real jewel,” the striker said.

Six‑hundred‑million investment

Manchester City confirmed the signing of the Moroccan midfielder for a total package that could reach €100 million, equivalent to R$600 million. The club paid €95 million – roughly R$570 million – as a fixed fee to Lille, with an additional €5 million (about R$30 million) in performance‑related bonuses.

Midfield reshaped after Rodri’s exit

The acquisition forms part of a broader midfield overhaul overseen by technical director Enzo Maresca after Rodri’s €100 million transfer to Barcelona. City have also invested in Elliot Anderson and Enzo Fernández to provide alternative options in the centre of the park.

Bouaddi arrived in England this window after impressing in French football and with the Morocco national team. He made his first start at the Estádio do Dragão, completing 75 minutes against Porto and delivering a steady performance. Prior to this, he had only two brief Premier League appearances.

Before the season began, Maresca publicly said finding a successor for Rodri was a top priority. He described Bouaddi as a promising option alongside the club’s other midfield investments, hoping the young Moroccan can develop into a long‑term solution.

The contrast between a six‑hundred‑million price tag and a teenager’s measured debut underscores City’s willingness to blend big‑money signings with home‑grown potential as they rebuild the engine room left vacant by Rodri.