It's time to take the next step. Ayub Bouadi: Joining Manchester City was the right decision.

Moroccan midfielder Ayoub Bouadi, 18, officially joined Premier League giants Manchester City today, signing a five-year contract. In an interview, Bouadi stated that now is the time to take the next step in his career, and joining Manchester City was the right decision.

Ayoub Bouadi previously played for Lille and made 30 appearances in the 2025/26 Ligue 1 season, and also represented the Moroccan national team in the 2026 World Cup.

Ayub Buadi stated, "I consider myself a player who fights for the team and is very team-oriented. I will always strive to put my teammates in the best positions and give my all for the team every time. I think the most important thing is to try to maintain the team's balance and help my teammates."

“We all know that it’s unlikely for a number 6 player to score 20 goals in a season. Of course, it can happen, but it’s very rare. So you have to keep the team balanced, do what you need to do for the team, and fulfill your responsibilities.”

Speaking about his current career, Ayub Bouadi said, "I think now is the right time because I'm doing very well at Lille. I'm having a great time there, but I feel it's time to take the next step. I started playing football when I was about six years old, and I started very early."

“Back then, I was in the small town of Creil in France. I joined Lille when I was 14 years old and went through the youth academy there before starting to play for the first team. After that, I played in the Champions League, Europa League, Europa League and the World Cup. And today, I’ve come to this place.”

In addition, Ayub Bouadi said, "I am really happy and proud to be at one of the greatest clubs in the world, and I hope everything goes well for me in the future. I think joining Manchester City was the right decision and I am very proud to be a part of it."

On the other hand, Manchester City will travel to face Crystal Palace in a key match of the second round of the 2026/27 Premier League season. In the first round, Maresca's team defeated Bournemouth 2-1 with goals from Gue and Gwadiol, securing a winning start.

Image source: Internet