Ayyoub Bouaddi: “I was looking for videos of Iniesta”

24.10.26 FT English Premier League

Aston Villa

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Manchester City

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Ayyoub Bouaddi grew up inspired by Andrés Iniesta. Now a Manchester City player following his departure from Lille, the young Moroccan midfielder explained how video compilations of the former Spain international fueled his passion and influenced his vision of the game.

Iniesta, a source of inspiration from childhood

Asked during a Manchester City podcast about the players who had made the biggest impression on him, Bouaddi immediately named the former playmaker of FC Barcelona:

If I had to choose a player I saw play, I would choose Andrés Iniesta. I didn’t watch many of his matches, but what I saw was incredible.

The midfielder then discussed a habit from his childhood: regularly searching YouTube for videos showcasing his idol’s technical skills:

I grew up during the era of YouTube compilations and, when I was a child, I searched every day for videos of Iniesta’s dribbles.

The Spaniard’s ball control, changes of direction and ability to escape from tight spaces therefore left their mark on the young player.

Bouaddi continues his rise at Manchester City

After making his professional debut at Lille, Bouaddi joined Manchester City during the last summer transfer window. The fee is estimated at around €100 million, including bonuses. The Moroccan midfielder is now seeking to establish himself in a particularly competitive squad. His first appearances are allowing him to continue adapting to English football.

A Morocco international after playing for France’s youth teams, Bouaddi has high ambitions. His admiration for Iniesta notably reflects his interest in a style of football built on technique, reading of the game and ball control. The challenge now is to turn this inspiration into a playing identity of his own at the highest level.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr

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