Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has heaped praise on teenage midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, describing the young Frenchman as a “gem” after being impressed by his performances in training and on the pitch.

Bouaddi has quickly attracted attention at Manchester City since making the move to the Premier League champions. Despite his young age, the midfielder has shown a level of confidence and composure that has impressed some of the biggest names inside the club.

Haaland revealed just how highly he rates Bouaddi, explaining that he even spoke to Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak about the youngster.

“I told the chairman: we found a gem!” Haaland said, speaking to Prime Video.

The Norwegian striker also praised Bouaddi’s approach during training, highlighting the quality and attitude the teenager has demonstrated since joining the squad.

“He’s training in a fantastic way, you can see how good he is,” Haaland added.

Haaland’s Praise Highlights Bouaddi’s Rapid Rise

For a young player attempting to establish himself at one of Europe’s biggest clubs, receiving such strong backing from a senior figure like Haaland is a major boost.

Haaland is one of Manchester City’s most important players and has established himself as one of the world’s leading strikers. His assessment of Bouaddi therefore carries considerable weight, particularly because it is based on what he has seen from the midfielder on a daily basis.

Bouaddi’s ability to impress during training is particularly important at City, where competition for places is intense. The club’s squad contains some of the best players in world football, meaning young talents must demonstrate exceptional technical ability and mentality to earn opportunities.

The teenager appears to have done exactly that.

A Player Manchester City Supporters Should Watch

Bouaddi’s emergence is another example of Manchester City’s continued focus on developing young talent while competing for major honours.

The midfielder has already demonstrated qualities that suggest he could become an important player in the future. His composure on the ball, technical ability and willingness to compete at a high level have helped him stand out.

However, expectations will need to be managed carefully. Being labelled a “gem” by a player of Haaland’s stature does not guarantee immediate success. Bouaddi still has to adapt to the physical demands of English football, the intensity of Premier League competition and the tactical requirements of playing under Pep Guardiola.

Nevertheless, the early signs are extremely encouraging.

Haaland’s Message Will Excite City Fans

Haaland’s comments will undoubtedly increase the excitement surrounding Bouaddi. When one of the club’s biggest stars publicly identifies a young teammate as a special talent, supporters naturally begin to pay closer attention.

The biggest challenge for Bouaddi now will be turning his promising performances into consistent first-team football.

If he continues to train at the level Haaland described and takes advantage of every opportunity that comes his way, there is every chance that Manchester City have discovered a player capable of making a significant impact in the years ahead.

For now, Haaland’s message is clear: Manchester City may have found themselves a very special young talent in Ayyoub Bouaddi.