Former Arsenal midfeilder Patick Vieira waxed lyical of Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, who has shone at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada.
Bouaddi, 18, who plies his club football with Lille has impressed at both ends of the partk during the quadrennial event. The teenager registered a team-high 87 touches and a pass accuracy of just over 90% in the 1-1 draw with Brazil.
He then played the entire game as the Atlas Lions beat Scotland 1-0, with Ismael Saibari scoring the game's only goal.
"Really impressive, he’s only 18, Vieira told the Rest is Football podcast (via the Metro). "But he plays like a 30-year-old. He’s got the tactical awareness, I think he’s always well positioned.
"He’s got the technical ability to play out from the back and a really strong personality. ‘I quite like the midfield three from Morocco but, of course, he’s the talent in this team."
Following his impressive World Cup performances, the Gunners target - valued at £60 million - has also caught the attention of Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid and Manchester United.
Bouaddi and Co. next take on Haiti in their final Group C game on Wednesday (June 24) in Atlanta, where a win will seal their place in the knockouts.
Turkey midfielder featuring at 2026 FIFA World Cup attracts Arsenal interest
Paris Saint-Germain vs Arsenal FC - UEFA Champions League Final 2026 - Source: Getty
Paris Saint-Germain vs Arsenal FC - UEFA Champions League Final 2026 - Source: Getty
Turkey midfielder Kenan Yildi has reportedly attracted interest from Arsenal following his impressive performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup even as his team exited the tournament after losing their opening two games.
Yildiz signed a contract extension with Juventus in February, which is set to keep him at the Allianz Arena till 2030. Nevertheless, as per Tutto Sport (via Mirror) the 21-year-old has attracted interest from the Gunners.
The Bianconeri, having failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League next season, might consider selling off their prized asset for a significant fee, considering his performances at the FIFA World Cup, as they look to rebuild.