Ayyoub Bouaddi: How Liverpool transfer target performed vs France as full stats emerge

Rising star Ayyoub Bouaddi has been heavily linked with a move to Liverpool in recent days after a successful 2026 World Cup with Morocco.

The Reds are reportedly huge admirers of the 18-year-old midfielder and are planning to make a move for him ahead of the new season.

The teenager star started in five of the North African side’s six matches at the 2026 World Cup, including the 2-0 defeat to France on Thursday in the quarter-finals.

However, against the 2018 champions, he massively underperformed, as the African Cup of Nations holders exited the tournament.

Bouaddi struggled to gain control of the midfield as France went on to win the match with ease.

As a result, the European nation will now face either Spain or Belgium in the World Cup semi-finals.

How poor was Ayyoub Bouaddi vs France?

In Ligue 1, Bouaddi has emerged as one of the division’s most promising youngsters at Lille.

Last season, the midfielder was on fine form, and this continued into the 2026 World Cup.

However, against France, the 18-year-old was simply outclassed by France’s elite stars.

According to Fotmob on 10 July, Bouaddi did not have a shot, or create a chance, completed just 85 per cent of his passes, failed to complete a single dribble, made just two defensive contributions and did not win a single aerial duel.

Therefore, any Liverpool officials watching on will likely be disappointed in the performance as Morocco exited the tournament without a fight.

What are Liverpool’s transfer plans for Bouaddi?

Football Insider has exclusively revealed that Liverpool are reluctantly prepared to loan Bouaddi back to Lille this summer if they can complete the signing.

The Ligue 1 side want to keep the youngster for another season, and the Reds are prepared to meet this demand if it helps them get the deal done.

Arsenal are also competing with Liverpool for the 18-year-old’s signature as both sides look to win the race.

Sources have indicated that Lille will demand close to the £100million mark for the starlet, who has dazzled for Morocco at this summer’s World Cup. 

However, it remains to be seen if either Liverpool or Arsenal will meet these demands over the coming weeks.