Olivier Giroud backs Ligue 1 wonderkid for Real Madrid transfer: ‘I can see him there from next season’ | OneFootball

Ayyoub Bouaddi’s reputation continues to grow with every passing week, and the latest endorsement has come from someone who knows exactly what it takes to succeed at the highest level.

The Lille midfielder has emerged as one of the standout young talents to watch during the FIFA World Cup, attracting attention from several elite European clubs following his impressive performances for Morocco. 

Among the clubs closely monitoring his development is Real Madrid, who have been tracking the teenager long before his breakthrough on the international stage.

Now, former France striker and Lille veteran Olivier Giroud has added further fuel to the growing excitement surrounding his 18-year-old club teammate.

Giroud full of praise for young midfielder

Speaking while working as a pundit for the BBC during the World Cup, Giroud offered a detailed assessment of Bouaddi’s qualities and explained why the midfielder has made such a strong impression.

Having shared a dressing room with him at Lille, Giroud believes one of the player’s greatest strengths lies in his mentality.

Bouaddi is liked by Real Madrid. (Photo by Vincent Carchietta/Getty Images)

“I was impressed by his maturity and by his environment, which is really healthy,” he began.

The former France international then highlighted the composure that sets Bouaddi apart from many players his age.

“He’s level-headed in the sense that he’s calm and self-assured. It’s a real asset to have him in your team, and Morocco must be very happy to have him.”

Comparisons with football legends

As Bouaddi’s profile rises, comparisons with some of the game’s most respected midfielders have naturally followed.

Giroud revealed that discussions within Lille often centred around the player’s similarities to two iconic figures.

“All my friends and several teammates told me about Patrick Vieira and Sergio Busquets, saying he was a mix of the two. 

“He’s still some way off reaching their level, but there are similarities.”

Giroud feel Real Madrid could be his next destination

Olivier Giroud has nothing but praise for his Lille teammate. (Photo by Vincent Carchietta/Getty Images)

While Giroud was complimentary about Bouaddi’s overall game, he also identified one area that still requires improvement before the midfielder reaches his full potential.

The former Arsenal and Chelsea striker believes the youngster must become more decisive in attacking situations.

“His transfer fee will be in the region of 60 or 70 million euros. That’s the going rate on the market right now. 

“It will be tough for Lille to keep him; the only thing he needs to work on is his finishing, something we used to tease him about a lot in the team.”

Giroud then explained exactly what he feels is missing, stating, 

“He needs to be more aggressive in front of goal and, if he manages that, I can see him at Real Madrid from next season.”

Source: MARCA