Patrick Vieira says he has been 'really impressed' by Morocco's World Cup star Ayyoub Bouaddi, who is a top transfer target for Arsenal. Bouaddi is quickly emerging as one of the best young players at the 2026 World Cup after standout performances in Morocco's opening two games against Brazil and Scotland.
Despite being just 18 years old and only making his international debut shortly before the tournament, the midfielder has thrived both offensively and defensively, showing maturity beyond his years. Arsenal have long been aware of his talent and have been in talks to sign him from Lille for several months, but his exposure on the world stage has attracted the attention of rival clubs like PSG.
Vieira's Endorsement
Gary Lineker called Bouaddi 'outstanding' and a 'breakout star' following the 1-0 victory over Scotland in Boston on Friday night, a sentiment Gunners legend Vieira agreed with.
'Really impressive, he's only 18 but he plays like a 30-year-old,' the French World Cup winner told the Rest is Football. 'He's got the tactical awareness, I think he's always well positioned. He's got the technical ability to play out from the back and a really strong personality.'
'I quite like the midfield three from Morocco but, of course, he's the talent in this team.'
Upon hearing Vieira's endorsement, Chelsea icon Joe Cole jokingly responded: 'Let's hope he doesn't go to Arsenal then!'
'He's brilliant. He's been the best young player I've seen at the tournament so far,' the former England international added. 'I was at Lille where he plays and I spoke to some of the guys there, the physios. There's been a lot of good young players come through Lille and I was asking about him.'
'They said he's as good as anything they've seen come through this system. They said he plays like a senior player, which we've seen in these first two games.'
Transfer Battle Ahead
Bringing Bouaddi to the Emirates will not be easy as Lille have slapped a €70 million (£60.4 million) price tag on him, while Manchester United and Real Madrid have also been encouraged to make a move for the midfielder.
For now, Bouaddi is solely focused on the World Cup, with Morocco second in Group C and almost certain to progress to the knockout stage. The African champions could yet do so as group winners however, should they beat Haiti and Scotland stun Brazil next week.
