Studying maths, winning a public speaking prize, and shining on the pitch: who is Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi?

Moroccan international Ayyoub Bouaddi is still making headlines, with Europe’s top clubs reportedly racing to sign the 18-year-old midfielder following an impressive performance against several of Brazil’s biggest stars.

But away from the pitch, Bouaddi, currently valued at €50m and considered among the youngest players at the 2026 World Cup, is building a profile beyond football, with media describing him as “a precocious phenomenon.”

According to French outlet Le Parisien, the Atlas Lion is pursuing an online degree in mathematics after obtaining his baccalaureate with highest honors.

“Two years ahead in the national team, one year ahead in school,” the French outlet described Bouaddi, noting that he graduated from high school at just 16.

“When you study alongside football, it keeps your mind sharp. For me, maths helps me read the game quicker, especially on a tactical level,” the Atlas Lions said back in 2024.

He added that having “a sharp mind in a strong body” is an advantage not only in life but also in football, improving game intelligence.

Georges Tournat, director of a football academy in Liévin, Pas-de-Calais, in northern France, previously described Bouaddi as a mature and intelligent boy, never stressed, with strong self-confidence, courage, hard work, and exceptional talent on the pitch

Beyond football and mathematics, the 18-year-old midfielder won first prize in a youth academy oratory competition on June 5, 2023, at the Élysée Palace, with Brigitte Macron as the event’s patron.

Europe’s big clubs in the race

After an outstanding performance against Brazil on Morocco’s World Cup debut, the rising talent has drawn the attention of Europe’s biggest clubs, all racing to secure his signature.

Arsenal and Liverpool have already held talks with the Atlas Lions midfielder’s representatives over a potential summer move.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has reportedly identified the young Moroccan as one of his top priorities for the summer transfer window.

Tottenham Hotspur is also in the race to sign Bouaddi from Lille.

The competition is expected to be intense, with Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and several other top European clubs also closely monitoring his progress, according to multiple media reports.

Amid this growing interest, Bouaddi has extended his contract with his formative club until 2029.