Morocco stole hearts with their run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and the north Africans are once again shining on the global stage, although there is one important difference this time - the addition of teenage sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi.
The 18-year-old was the talk of social media following his superb showing in Morocco's tournament opener against Brazil, overshadowing the established opposition midfield duo of Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes.
Both those players featured in the Premier League last season and after becoming one of the stars of the opening weeks of the World Cup, Lille midfielder Bouaddi is attracting the attention of the biggest clubs in England and Europe.
"Anyone who has watched him at Lille knows his level," former Morocco international Hassan Kachloul tells BBC Sport. "He is regarded as a top prospect.
"Against players like Casemiro, Lucas Paqueta and Bruno Guimaraes, he showed not just quality but personality - a kind of positive arrogance. He had confidence, a great aura and a strong presence on the pitch. He thrives in that environment."
The 18-year-old was the talk of social media following his superb showing in Morocco's tournament opener against Brazil, overshadowing the established opposition midfield duo of Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes.
Both those players featured in the Premier League last season and after becoming one of the stars of the opening weeks of the World Cup, Lille midfielder Bouaddi is attracting the attention of the biggest clubs in England and Europe.
"Anyone who has watched him at Lille knows his level," former Morocco international Hassan Kachloul tells BBC Sport. "He is regarded as a top prospect.
"Against players like Casemiro, Lucas Paqueta and Bruno Guimaraes, he showed not just quality but personality - a kind of positive arrogance. He had confidence, a great aura and a strong presence on the pitch. He thrives in that environment."
30 days ago
