Who is Ayyoub Bouaddi? Meet LOSC's in-demand midfielder
With Ayyoub Bouaddi having potentially played his last match for LOSC, we take a look back at the Morocco international midfielder's meteoric rise to stardom in our latest One to Watch.
From the academy to Breakout displays in the Champions League
Born in the city of Senlis to Moroccan parents, Ayyoub Bouaddi came up through the ranks at local side AFC Creil before joining LOSC at the age of 13 in 2021. Such was his promise, he signed his first professional contract at the age of 15 just two years later, having already been a regular for France's youth sides. Impressive with the reserves, he remained largely a bit-part player for that first season, but much would change in the following campaign.
It's not every day that one gets to make a UEFA Champions League debut against Real Madrid, let alone on the evening of one's 17th Birthday. It was, however, a scenario that became reality for the youngster, who dominated against the undisputed kings of Europe's premiere competition with calmness, discipline, and an assured technical ability. This wasn't just against any old midfield opposition, he seemingly did it with ease against a trio of Jude Bellingham, Aurélien Tchouamémi and Eduardo Camavinga.
His performance would help Lille would clinch a historic victory against Los Blancos (1-0) thanks to Jonathan David's penalty just before half-time. A key architect of Lille’s stunning achievement, Bouaddi extended his incredible birthday celebration by leading the entire Stade Pierre-Mauroy into song. Subsequently strong displays against the likes of Atletico Madrid and Juventus would further his reputation on Europe's biggest stage.
Ayyoub Bouaddi saying goodbye to Lille’s supporters 🥹❤️ pic.twitter.com/lRYNVEppPv
— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) August 23, 2026
A new level in the World Cup
Clearly, playing a key part in Lille's impressive run in Europe's top competition would have put his name on the radar of many of the continent's biggest clubs, as would his integral role in LOSC finishing third last season. But what really boosted his star -- like so many promising players -- was a series of standout displays in the World Cup.
Having pledged his future to his parents' homeland earlier this year, Bouaddi only made his debut for the Atlas Lions in May, but he quickly stood out in this summer's tournament. While Morocco failed to reach the heights of 2022, being eliminated by France in the quarterfinals, Bouaddi was one of the best players for his side, turning a series of composed yet dynamic displays in midfield.
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