Morocco’s next generation of football stars continues to attract international attention, with Ayyoub Bouaddi and Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal securing spots in the latest Golden Boy 2026 Top 100 rankings.
The updated list, published by Italian sports daily Tuttosport, ranks the 100 most promising players under the age of 21 competing in European football.
Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, 18, climbed to fifth place in the standings after a breakthrough season that cemented his reputation as one of Europe’s brightest young talents.
Bouaddi also earned widespread praise for his performances with Morocco during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Tuttosporthighlighted the midfielder’s composure and maturity, noting that he plays with the confidence and experience of a seasoned professional despite his young age.
His rapid rise has reportedly attracted interest from several major European clubs, including Arsenal, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
Joining Bouaddi on the list is Rennes defender Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal, who came through the Mohammed VI Football Academy before completing his move to the French side.
The pair are the only Moroccan players included in this year’s rankings.
Established by Tuttosport in 2003, the Golden Boy award recognizes the best under-21 player competing in Europe. The winner is chosen each year by a panel of 50 journalists representing leading sports publications across the continent.
Previous recipients of the award include Lionel Messi, Sergio Agüero, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham and Lamine Yamal.
French winger Désiré Doué is the reigning Golden Boy after winning the 2025 edition.
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