Midfield sensation wanted by United breaks silence on his future after lighting up World Cup stage

Lille midfield wonderkid Ayyoub Bouaddi has addressed the mounting speculation over his future, even as he continues to be linked with a move to Manchester United. Bouaddi interest Bouaddi enjoyed a stunning 2025/26 season with Lille, drawing attention to himself ahead of the summer window, which officially opens on Monday, 15 June. Aged just 16 years and three days, he made his Lille debut in October 2023 and swiftly became a regular under former manager Paulo Fonseca. During that time, he featured alongside fellow teenager Leny Yoro, who would later move to Old Trafford. A technically adept dribbler, Bouaddi has kicked on over the past few months, adding sublime passing and defensive solidity to his already impressive skillset. Bouaddi announced himself to the world on Saturday, as Morocco drew 1-1 with Brazil in their World Cup opener. Having turned his back on France to represent Morocco, he showed exactly why he has become one of the most admired players in Europe. United are prioritising midfield reinforcements and Bouaddi is said to be a player of interest to the club. Arsenal have also been mentioned to be in the running for his services. The 18-year-old spoke to David Ornstein of The Athletic and issued a response to the mounting speculation over his future. Bouaddi speaks When it was put to him that there is plenty of talk in England about him potentially sealing a switch to the Premier League, Bouaddi answered, “For the moment I’m only focused on the World Cup.” “I cannot answer to this right now.” “But of course I’m really happy to know that some clubs are interested in me but for now I’m only focused on the World Cup and we will try to give everything to do our best.” 🚨 Excl: Ayyoub Bouaddi on future amid growing interest in Lille & #Morocco midfielder – “I’m really happy to know that some clubs are interested in me but for now I’m only focused on the WC and we will try to give everything to do our best” @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/4wSOvZxzaY pic.twitter.com/yVlM5kTrIJ — David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 14, 2026 He didn’t give a full-blown come-get-me plea, yet it’s noteworthy that Bouaddi didn’t dismiss an exit either. That hint of openness suggests he might be receptive to a switch. United will do well to keep tabs on him and how his World Cup campaign unfolds. Feature image Christof Koepsel via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Latest Top Stories… Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!