Swiss Gianni Infantino, President of the International Football Association "FIFA", directed special congratulations and praise to Moroccan midfielder Ayoub Bouaddi, player of the French team Lille.
Ayoub Bouaddi, player of the Moroccan national football team, has become the youngest player to participate in the World Cup quarter-finals since the late Brazilian star Pelé.
Ayoub Bouaddi receives praise from Infantino
Gianni Infantino posted on his "Instagram" account today, Sunday, video clips of Ayoub Bouaddi and Pelé, commenting: "Ayoub made history when he stepped onto the pitch during his country's match against the French national team".
Infantino added in his message: "He became the youngest player to participate in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals since the legend Pelé, congratulations to Ayoub Bouaddi on this wonderful achievement".
Pelé had participated in the round of 16 in the 2026 World Cup competitions held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, at the age of 17 years and 239 days, while Bouaddi participated at the age of 18 years and 280 days.
It is worth noting that Ayoub Bouaddi's teammates were eliminated from the quarter-final round of the World Cup, losing to France by two goals to nil.
The French midfielder played 5 matches during the World Cup, and currently plays for Lille club, and press reports indicated that he is within the circle of interest of the English club Manchester City.
The Sky Blues intensified their contacts in recent weeks, given the management's conviction in the great potential that Bouaddi possesses, especially with the possibility of changes in the midfield in the coming period.
