Bouaddi's Big Step: Smith Warns City's Teenage Signing Faces a Learning Curve
Ayyoub Bouaddi's move to Manchester City is official, confirmed at the Etihad on Wednesday. The fee, reported to be upwards of €100m (£85.7m), tells you everything about the club's expectations. But according to Alan Smith, the real test starts now.
Smith, speaking exclusively, has cautioned that the 18-year-old must brace himself for a significant step up. 'Some players don't need time, but he's only 18 and has limited experience really, with a couple of seasons at Lille in France,' he said.
The holding midfielder arrives as a long-term investment, but that doesn't mean there won't be pressure. 'Obviously, it's a big step up to the Premier League, but he is talented,' Smith added. 'But he's a long-term signing, and he's got new teammates to get used to.'
That adjustment period could be lengthy. 'Perhaps it's not going to click straight away. It'll be a learning process, but it's a good signing for City,' Smith said.
What makes Bouaddi's task particularly daunting is the role he's expected to fill. With Rodri's departure, City have turned to a teenager with no experience of English football to anchor the midfield. 'It's asking a lot of a teenager with no experience of English football to replace Rodri,' Smith admitted.
The expectation is heightened by the price tag. 'There will be a lot of expectation placed on his shoulders due to his price tag,' Smith noted.
Bouaddi's game, according to the analysis, is most similar to the former Ballon d'Or winner. That comparison alone sets a high bar. Yet City's actions suggest they believe he can reach it.
The club have decided to offload two other midfielders, Tijjani Reijnders and Nico Gonzalez, both far more experienced than Bouaddi. It's a clear statement of intent. As the article points out, it demonstrates how highly they rate the Moroccan international, considering they were willing to sell these players to make room for him.
Smith's message is simple: Bouaddi will be expected to perform to a good level right from the off. The learning curve will be steep, but City have made their choice. Now the teenager has to prove it.